Laser Ignition

Lasers enable pinpoint ignition by focusing high-energy light onto a small spot to rapidly heat a target material past its ignition temperature, using precise wavelengths and pulsed durations to deliver energy exactly where needed without heating surrounding areas.

In laser ignition systems—like those used in internal combustion engines or fusion experiments—the beam can be tuned to vaporize or ionize fuel particles, creating a localized plasma that initiates combustion uniformly.

Optics such as lenses and mirrors are engineered to concentrate and steer the beam with micrometer-scale accuracy, allowing control over ignition timing and location, reducing incomplete combustion, and improving efficiency compared to traditional spark plugs or heating elements.