Description:
This Request for Proposals (the “RFP”) is an invitation by the University of Ottawa (the “University”) to prospective proponents to submit proposals for a High-Power Femtosecond Laser, funded by the Canada Foundation for Innovation and the Ontario Research Fund.
The Delivrables
The University of Ottawa is pleased to invite qualified vendors to submit a proposal for a High-Power Femtosecond Laser.
This equipment will deliver a high-power, high-repetition-rate ultrafast laser system with burst-mode capability, forming the core of a next-generation single-pulse terahertz (THz) spectroscopy platform. The completed system will enable real-time acquisition of THz waveforms at MHz rates, supporting advanced investigations into irreversible and non-reproducible phenomena in soft matter, biomolecular systems, and strongly coupled light-matter states. The laser must deliver near-infrared pulses with a duration less than 300 fs and ≥50 W of average power with a tunabel repetition rates up to 2 MHz or above while supporting a burst-mode operation with ten or more ultrashort pulses separated by less than 25 ns.
The expected output is a fully operational laser system, installed and tested on-site, with all required control software, chillers, and safety interlocks. The system must meet the performance specifications outlined in the technical requirements. The supplier is expected to provide comprehensive documentation, training, and post-installation support to ensure seamless integration and long-term reliability.
Mandatory Technical Requirements:
1.0 - Ultrafast laser output
1.1 - The laser must deliver 50 W or more of average optical power.
1.2 - Repetition rate must be tunable from 20 kHz (or lower) to 2 MHz (or higher).
1.3 - Maximum pulse energy must be at least 0.5 mJ
1.4 - Minimum pulse duration must be equal or less than 300 fs (FWHM).
1.5 - A computer-controlled compressor must allow the ultrashort pulse to stretch to at least 5 ps using both negative and positive dispersion.
1.6 - Central wavelength of the laser must be between 1020 and 1040 nm.
1.7 - The laser beam must have a beam quality factor M² ≤ 1.2
1.8 - The laser system must include a burst mode capability that enables the generation of a series of at least 10 pulses, with each pulse separated by 25 ns or less.
2.0 - System operation
2.1 - The laser must be computer-controlled with software provided.
2.2 - The size of the laser enclosure must be less than 100 cm x 50 cm x 30 cm (lwh).
2.3 - The cooling system must be able to rely on a water-to-water chiller.
3.0 - Other Requirements
3.1 - Water pipes and electrical cables connecting the chiller to the laser/power supply must each have a minimum length of 10 m.
3.2 - Installation and operational training (onsite at uOttawa premises or remote support for self‑installation) must be included.
3.3 - Minimum of 1 year warranty on parts and services.
