One of the best optics laboratories in the Latin American region is available at the CIF. Co-operation efforts between Colciencias, who provided financial assistance, and researchers from the Academy of Sciences of Ukraine , made its installation a reality.

Amongst projects being carried out by the Optics Group, mention could be made of the following:

• Production of holograms of works of art, such as Gold Museum pieces, etc.
  
• A system for the non-destructive assay of parts by means of interferometry (ESPI). Since it allows for structural flaws detection before they become apparent, this system is of particular interest to the aeronautical and oil industries.
  
• LIDAR system for atmospheric pollution studies by means of laser spectroscopy. The system allows for the detection of pollutants density and type in a wide area of a city, covering a distance larger than current stationary posts. A pilot prototype is already available while work is progressing concerning final aspects to secure financing from the National Royalties Fund and the Risaralda Provincial Government.
  
• Study of methods to detect document forgery. Two complementary techniques have been so far developed: the analysis of surface profile by means of the fringes projection method. (This equipment is already in operation at the Instituto de Medicina Legal (Forensic Medicine Institute), and the study of ink composition in a document through a laser bombing system. The latter system has led to a national patent to be shortly submitted for international registration.
  
• Human profile reconstruction system by non-destructive optical methods. This system carries a lot of weight as regards aesthetical medicine. This system is currently in the development stage with Maloka support.