Teak Leaves for Laser Protection | 02 Jul 2025

Source: PIB  

Indian scientists have discovered that teak leaf extract could be harnessed as a natural, eco-friendly optical limiter to protect eyes and sensitive sensors from high-intensity laser radiation. 

• Teak leaves contain anthocyanins, natural pigments with nonlinear optical (NLO) properties, making them suitable for optical power-limiting applications such as laser safety goggles, optical shields, and laser-resistant coatings. 

Teak (Tectona grandis) 

• About: Teak (Sagwan) is a moist deciduous tree known as the "King of Timbers" for its durability, strength, and resistance to pests, water, and decay, making it ideal for shipbuilding, premium furniture, flooring, exterior construction, carving, turnings, and musical instruments. 
  • India holds 35% of the world’s planted teak forests, while Asia accounts for 95% of global teak resources. 
• Geographic Distribution: It is native to South and Southeast Asia, including India, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, and Indonesia. 
  • In India, it grows in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Assam, and the Northeast, thriving in well-drained soils and full sunlight. 
• Botanical Features: Teak is a large deciduous tree with a straight cylindrical trunk (1–1.5 m diameter), oblong dark green leaves in opposite pairs, and small, fragrant white/cream flowers in clusters. 
• Regulatory Status: Green felling is prohibited in government forests under the Forest Conservation Act, 1980 and the National Forest Policy, 1988, making private teak plantations essential to meet domestic and export demands.