Near-Infrared Dyes for High Technology Applications

This text opens up new avenues in the development of highly sensitive and specific fluorometric and sensor methods based on the NIR laser techniques, allowing detection down to the single molecule level. Most important are NIR laser diodes in combination with NIR dyes, which facilitates the automation and miniaturization of reliable UV/vis and fluorescence spectroscopic and immunoassay "in situ" measurements. This permits, for example, analyses of pH values, metal ions, pollutants, membranes, proteins, living cells and the DNA genetic code. Furthermore, the book describes applications of NIR dyes in high technology areas, such as photochemistry, molecular biology, clinical chemistry, tumour therapy, laser physics, nonlinear optics, laser sensitive optical recording techniques, optical discs, compact discs, laser printers, optical cards, photoengraving, transparent bar coding, forgery prevention, photoresists, spectrally-sensitized photographic materials, thermal transfer printing, and heat-shielding materials. The text represents a compilation of challenging information for scientists and engineers interested in high technology developments and applications.