In a remarkable breakthrough, scientists at the Raman Research Institute (RRI) have discovered that extract from teak leaves, usually considered agricultural waste, could serve as a natural shield against harmful laser radiation.
Teak leaves, from the Tectona grandis tree, are rich in anthocyanins—natural pigments known for their vibrant reddish-brown hue. When exposed to laser light, these pigments exhibit nonlinear optical (NLO) properties, specifically reverse saturable absorption. This means they absorb more light at higher intensities, making them ideal for use in laser safety equipment like goggles and sensor shields.
The process involves drying the leaves, grinding them, and extracting the dye through a combination of solvents, ultrasonication, and centrifugation. The resulting natural dye not only offers excellent optical protection but also stands out as an eco-friendly, biodegradable alternative to synthetic materials currently used in photonics.
With global interest growing in green technology, this discovery could pave the way for sustainable innovations in laser protection—reducing environmental impact while enhancing human and device safety.
