O2Ignition · Laser Ignition by Two-Color Ionization of Oxygen

Laser ignition (LI) is an attractive enabling energy technology for increased ignition versatility, fuel economy, and improved environmental outcomes, especially for alternative fuels. The low efficiency of the critical step (laser ionization of molecular oxygen) has long hindered its adoption. We have discovered a significantly more effective two-color resonant multiphoton ionization scheme for molecular oxygen than the one traditionally used, which also brings important practical benefits due to its leverage of non-ultraviolet light. This advance is the missing link in the developed but never commercialized laser igniter. We anticipate that our LI technology will be incorporated into existing generators and engines, pave the way for alternative designs at higher pressures, and eventually spur the adoption of green fuels such as ammonia. Our main goal is surveying the combustion-related markets and identifying potential clients and partners with whom we could collaborate to understand the commercial and technical contexts into which we will incorporate our ignition technology. We have designed an integrated research and business strategy to patent our innovation, validate the technology with strategic partners from industry, and perform additional testing to demonstrate its potential impact on the broader future energy market. Initial contacts with Cummins, a leading global power solutions company, have yielded valuable guidance for refining our development plan, based on their interest and advice.