The Waterloo Free Electron Laser: WaterFEL

WaterFEL at the University of Waterloo

In a thrilling convergence of cutting-edge science and pioneering research, the University of Waterloo's Faculty of Science proudly announces the establishment of North America's only Infrared Free Electron Laser (IR-FEL) user facility named WaterFEL. This groundbreaking initiative promises to revolutionize research across physics, chemistry, materials science and beyond, offering unprecedented capabilities for studying ultrafast processes and exploring new frontiers in science and technology. This facility will position the University of Waterloo at the forefront of laser technology and scientific innovation on the continent.

Imagine a future where humanity has conquered the challenges of metabolic diseases, ensuring that every individual enjoys a healthy and vibrant life. A world where diabetes, glaucoma and obesity are cured, where neonatal diseases like galactosemia and phenylketonuria no longer have profound health effects on children. Picture a world where clean water flows abundantly, soil is free from pollutants, providing sustenance and vitality to communities worldwide. Envision a planet where our scientific endeavours lead us to explore distant realms, discovering new forms of life and expanding our understanding of the universe.

This future is not just a dream but a tangible goal researchers at the University of Waterloo can achieve within the next 15-20 years through the new WaterFEL facility.

Project Partners and Funding

In brief, the Waterloo free electron laser (WaterFEL) is an accelerator-based light source that produces tunable infrared radiation by passing a relativistic electron beam through a series of permanent magnets. The infrared light produced by WaterFEL is used to study how molecules absorb energy, enabling scientists from around the world to gain insight into a wide range of applications, from identifying biochemical markers associated with cancer and other diseases to developing libraries of infrared spectral fingerprints of molecules relevant to the search for extraterrestrial life.

The infrared system is housed within a 19m x 13m concrete bunker 1.5 stories underground with a 1.5m concrete ceiling and 2m interior wall. WaterFEL does not use nuclear fuel, undergo fission processes, or use radioactive source material. Radiation hazards are limited to those typical of electron accelerator facilities (e.g., bremsstrahlung and secondary neutrons), which are present only when the FEL is operating and the radiation vault is sealed. When the FEL is off, no radiation is produced. Activation of materials within the WaterFEL bunker during FEL operation is possible and does occur, but WaterFEL is engineered such that activation of material is minimized per the ALARA protocol, and areas where activation does occur are to be shielded such that radiation levels at a distance of 1m from the point source are at or below background levels. 

 The anticipated effects on the environment and on the health and safety of persons are minimal and fully confined within the facility envelope. Following FEL operation, activated air within the radiation bunker is not released until a minimum one-hour hold period has elapsed, allowing short-lived isotopes to decay. There are no radiological releases to the environment, no activation of surrounding soil or groundwater, and to the best of our knowledge, no exposure pathways to members of the public or to WaterFEL staff during operation. Worker and public safety are ensured through engineered shielding, controlled access and interlocked areas, radiation monitoring, and operating procedures consistent with those used at comparable accelerator facilities such as the Canadian Light Source (CLS) and TRIUMF.

Public Information Program for the Nuclear Accelerator

The following list of activities outlines our plans for providing clear communication to the public regarding Waterloo’s new accelerator.

• We would create a website for the public to learn about our facility, including a summary of the research and safety programs. We would write an article in our Daily Bulletin to announce the groundbreaking and provide updates as appropriate.
• Administrators and department heads for all faculties and department’s expecting to use the facility will be provided updates to ensure they are aware of all policies and use guidelines. We will also provide a FAQ for posting online and for distribution to any interested party – with a focus on the education sector in our local community.
• Lastly, we will announce the opening celebration on our main website and provide guided tours to student groups and other interested parties after opening.