Fluorescence lifetime imaging using a compact, low-cost, diode-based all-solid-state regenerative amplifier

A fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) system is described that utilizes a new compact and low-cost ultrafast laser source based on a gain-switched laser diode-seeded all-solid-state Cr:LiSAF regenerative amplifier that has been designed for this application. The pulse parameters of this source (0.5 μJ, 827 nm, 100 ps, 5 kHz) are shown to be appropriate to time-domain FLIM using a gated optical intensifier and the application to functional imaging of biological tissue is demonstrated, as well as the first evaluation of organic light emitting diodes using FLIM.

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