Photonics projects shine a light on Europe’s future innovation

From cleaner manufacturing to smarter environmental monitoring and even exploring the atmosphere of Mars, photonics is helping shape the next generation of technology

By using photons, the particles of light, researchers are developing faster, more precise, and energy-efficient solutions that could transform industries and scientific discovery.

Already embedded in everyday technologies such as lasers, optical fibres, smartphone cameras and LED lighting, photonics is increasingly recognised as a key driver of innovation.

As conventional electronic technologies approach their limits, light-based technologies are opening up new possibilities in speed, accuracy and performance.

The European Union has identified photonics as one of its strategic digital technologies and continues to support research through Horizon Europe. Several projects managed by the European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HaDEA) are now showing how photonics can contribute to sustainability, environmental protection and space exploration.

Greener manufacturing with laser technology

Manufacturing industries often rely on chemical treatments to improve the performance of components, particularly complex parts such as turbine blades. While effective, these processes can generate significant waste and environmental impacts.

The BILASURF project has developed an alternative approach using advanced laser technology to create functional surface textures directly onto industrial components. Inspired by structures found in nature, these microscopic patterns help reduce friction, improve aerodynamic and hydrodynamic performance, lower energy consumption and increase the lifespan of parts.

The project combines high-speed laser processing with automated handling systems, quality monitoring and digital manufacturing tools, allowing precise treatment of complex three-dimensional surfaces. By replacing conventional chemical coatings with laser-based techniques, BILASURF offers a cleaner manufacturing process that reduces waste and eliminates harmful by-products.

Researchers also showed the technology’s potential for large-scale industrial use, with possible applications across aerospace, transport and advanced manufacturing sectors.

Smarter monitoring of water pollution

Monitoring water quality is becoming increasingly important as pollution threatens ecosystems and public health. Current monitoring methods often focus on only a limited number of pollutants and can require regular maintenance.

The IBAIA project is developing a portable multisensor system capable of detecting a broad range of water-quality indicators within a single device. By combining photonics with electrochemical sensing technologies, the system can identify organic pollutants, microplastics, heavy metals, nutrient salts, salinity, and other important environmental parameters.

Designed for long-term deployment in remote locations, the device operates with low energy consumption, powered by solar panels and batteries. Its modular design allows individual sensor units to be replaced or upgraded as needed, making the system both flexible and cost-effective.

Compact LiDAR for Mars exploration

Understanding the Martian atmosphere is essential for future exploration and for studying the planet’s climate history. However, conventional Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) systems are too large and power-intensive for most space missions.

The MiLi project has addressed this challenge by developing a compact, lightweight LiDAR system specifically designed for Mars. Using advanced photonics, the system sends laser pulses into the atmosphere and analyses the reflected light to study dust, clouds and other atmospheric features.

Researchers reduced the instrument’s size and power requirements by introducing laser diode stacks, silicon photomultipliers and specialised optical components. They also developed durable ceramic materials capable of withstanding the extreme temperature fluctuations on Mars.

The prototype completed field testing at Spain’s Yebes Observatory, demonstrating improved performance during both day and night operations. The achievement marks an important step towards equipping future Mars missions with more efficient atmospheric monitoring technology.

Together, these projects highlight the growing role of photonics in tackling global challenges. Whether improving industrial sustainability, protecting natural resources or expanding humanity’s understanding of other planets, the science of light is helping to illuminate the future.