Fiber lasers in focus: bibliometric analysis of a growing field

Abstract

Fiber laser technology has gained prominence as a key area in optical research, characterized by rapid progression and notable advancements. This paper delves into the advancements of fiber laser technology, aiming to shed light on its evolution, significant contributors, and current trends. Our analysis, drawing on data from leading scientific databases covering the period from 1995 to 2023, reveals a marked increase in research activities, underscoring the growing importance of fiber lasers in sectors like industrial machining and medical therapies. We identify and classify the primary research areas, highlighting leading research institutions and countries spearheading this field. The study also explores collaboration networks to illustrate the interconnectedness of global research efforts. We focus on significant technological breakthroughs in fiber laser development, including their increasing compactness, energy efficiency, and versatility, reflecting the industry's response to market demands. This paper aims to provide a detailed overview of fiber laser literature, guiding future research, fostering collaborations, and laying a foundational knowledge base for newcomers to the field. Our findings underscore the need for continued investment in fiber laser research, recognizing its potential to drive forward laser technology and impact various scientific and industrial domains.