Limburg Companies Develop Laser Innovation for Future Einstein Telescope
Netalux and Omega-Tronics Working on New Cleaning Technology
BERINGEN/PAAL – The Limburg-based technology companies Netalux and Omega-Tronics are currently developing an innovative laser cleaning technology that could play a crucial role in the future construction of the Einstein Telescope. The method enables completely contactless and thorough cleaning of vacuum tubes—critical for precise measurements. The project is supported by the ET Innovation Fund of POM Limburg and the Province of Limburg.
“With the ET Innovation Fund, we give SMEs the opportunity to contribute to world-class international research,” says Tom Vandeput, Deputy for Economy and Chairman of POM Limburg. “What is being developed today for the Einstein Telescope could also break through in other sectors tomorrow.” The fund covers up to 50 percent of the costs, with a maximum of €50,000 per project.
High Standards for Vacuum Tubes
To detect gravitational waves, the Einstein Telescope requires more than 100 kilometers of vacuum tubes. These must be extremely clean, as even microscopic contamination—such as grease residue from production—can disrupt the ultra-high vacuum and damage the sensitive mirrors.
That’s why Netalux and technology partner Omega-Tronics are developing a system within the NETAWELD project that uses precision lasers for cleaning. The technology is being optimized for industrial applications, with improved laser control and a more efficient extraction system.
Testing with CERN Scientists
The initial tests were conducted in collaboration with researchers from CERN. “We quickly realized that effective extraction is just as important as the laser settings themselves,” says Emmanuel Flaam, co-founder and CEO of Netalux. “These insights led to a much more efficient design.” Omega-Tronics is also pleased with the results. “Our contribution mainly involved refining the electronic control,” says CEO Philippe Aerts. “This project brought together our expertise in precision mechanics and electronics in an application with international potential.”
Sustainable and Widely Applicable
The new laser cleaning technology has applications far beyond science. Sectors such as pharmaceuticals, aerospace, energy, injection molding, and metalworking could benefit from the sustainable and contactless cleaning method. It prevents damage, is quickly deployable, and leaves no chemical waste or water residues. “Thanks to NETAWELD, we are taking a step forward in strengthening Limburg as a hub for laser technology,” concludes Tom Vandeput. “The Eindhoven-Brussels-Aachen region has been working toward this development for years. This project anchors that expertise and gives it international visibility.”
