Abstract: A microlaser system, including a microlaser, having an elongated generally cylindrical substrate, a thin dopant film encircling at least a portion of the substrate, and a pumping laser positioned to shine onto the thin film. The thin film is between about 2 and about 10 microns thick. When the pumping laser shines on the thin film, the thin film lases in whispering gallery mode. The dopant is preferably selected from the group including transition metals and rare-earth elements. In a most preferred embodiment, the thin film is titanium-doped amorphous aluminum nitride.

Abstract: Ultra-high-performance cementitious materials are made using suitably functionalized and relatively low-cost carbon nanofibers and graphite platelets. Polyelectrolytes and surfactants are physisorbed upon these graphite nanomaterials in water, and dispersion of nanomaterials in water is achieved by stirring. Stable and well-dispersed suspensions of nanomaterials in water are realized without using energy-intensive and costly methods, and also without the use of materials which could hinder the hydration and strength development of ultra-high-performance cementitious materials. The water incorporating dispersed nanomaterials is then mixed with the cementitious matrix and, optionally, microfibers, and cured following standard concrete mixing and curing practices. The resulting cementitious materials incorporating graphite nanomaterials and optionally microfibers offer a desired balance of strength, toughness, abrasion resistance, moisture barrier attributes, durability and fire resistance.

Abstract: Ultra-high-performance cementitious materials are made using suitably functionalized and relatively low-cost carbon nanofibers and graphite platelets. Polyelectrolytes and surfactants are physisorbed upon these graphite nanomaterials in water, and dispersion of nanomaterials in water is achieved by stirring. Stable and well-dispersed suspensions of nanomaterials in water are realized without using energy-intensive and costly methods, and also without the use of materials which could hinder the hydration and strength development of ultra-high-performance cementitious materials. The water incorporating dispersed nanomaterials is then mixed with the cementitious matrix and, optionally, microfibers, and cured following standard concrete mixing and curing practices. The resulting cementitious materials incorporating graphite nanomaterials and optionally microfibers offer a desired balance of strength, toughness, abrasion resistance, moisture barrier attributes, durability and fire resistance.

Abstract: A microlaser system, including a microlaser, having an elongated generally cylindrical substrate, a thin dopant film encircling at least a portion of the substrate, and a pumping laser positioned to shine onto the thin film. The thin film is between about 2 and about 10 microns thick. When the pumping laser shines on the thin film, the thin film lases in whispering gallery mode. The dopant is preferably selected from the group including transition metals and rare-earth elements. In a most preferred embodiment, the thin film is titanium-doped amorphous aluminum nitride.