Abstract: An apparatus (10) for real-time in-line monitoring of a material (26) comprises a blackbody source (12), a first set of reflective surfaces (17) and a second set of reflective surfaces (38). Electromagnetic radiation (16) is emitted from the blackbody source (12) into the first set of reflective surfaces (17), which directs the radiation to a flow stream or material (26) which is to be tested. The radiation passes through or is reflected from the material (26). A transmission spectrum, resulting from the passage of the radiation through the material (26) or the reflection from the material (26), is then received by the second set of reflective surfaces (38). The second set of reflective surfaces (38) diffracts the transmission spectrum (34-36) and focusses the diffracted spectrum onto a detector (52). The detector (52) provides transmission spectrum data to a microprocessor (58) for comparison to a characteristic spectrum of the material (26) for determination of the necessity of a process adjustment.

Abstract: The dielectric, which is provided on either side of the active phosphor in an AC-driven electroluminescent display, is formed of a composite material which has both high dielectric constant and high resistivity. Preferably, a composite of titanum dioxide and alumina is used.

Abstract: A method for producing AC-driven thin film electroluminescent displays, wherein the phosphor is laser annealed to enhance crystallinity. Preferably the phosphor is zinc fluoride, which has a relatively low melting point, facilitating low temperature processing.

Abstract: Coupler for joining two optical fibers to a third fiber, while preserving good optical isolation between the first two fibers. The coupler is preferably formed of an approximately index-matching plastic, and the fiber ends are cemented in place. The two fibers which are to be isolted are located parallel and adjacent to each other, and their ends are glued into an elongated hole on one side of the coupler. Opposite to this hole is a second hole into which the union fiber is seated. Epoxy glue is used to connect the fibers in place. Plastic fibers are preferably used.

Abstract: This disclosure is directed to a photovoltaic detector having specific response to the infrared range, wherein the detector comprises a metal-semiconductor diode having a semi-transparent electrode and disposed on a specially prepared substrate of a narrow band gap semiconductor material or on an epitaxial layer or evaporated film of such material provided on a substrate. In a specific example, the narrow band gap semiconductor material of the substrate is specially prepared (Pb,Sn)Te or an epitaxial layer or evaporated film of (Pb,Sn)Te on a (Pb,Sn)Te substrate. The detected radiation is transmitted through the semi-transparent electrode on top of the photovoltaic detector.