The acronym MLIS (molecular laser isotope separation) defines the laser process whereby the isotopes of uranium can be separated by mid-infrared laser/s when the molecule employed is UF₆. The theoretical and spectroscopical data to configure and enable experiments and demonstrations in the laboratory is adequate. However, the engineering and commercial aspects require innovative technology solutions that are not presently available in the literature on these topics. This paper is an overview of the most salient features of MLIS and its potential utility at an industrial level.

We simulate adaptive feedback control to coherently shape a femtosecond infrared laser pulse by means of a 4f-spatial light modulator in order to selectively excite the rovibrational modes of a polyatomic molecule. We preferentially populate an arbitrarily chosen upper rovibrational level by only employing these tailored temporally shaped pulses. A second laser would then allow for mode selective chemistry to interact selectively with the excited population. Alternatively the excited molecules enhanced reactivity could be exploited for selective chemistry.