Quantum cascade laser open-path system for remote sensing of trace gases in Beijing, China

摘要

Abstract. Exploiting several key characteristics of quantumncascade (QC) lasers, including wide tunability and room-ntemperature operation, the Quantum Cascade Laser Open-nPath System (QCLOPS) was designed for the detection ofna range of trace gases and for field deployment in urbannenvironments. Tunability over a wavelength range from 9.3nto 9.8 μm potentially provides the capability for monitoringnozone, ammonia, and carbon dioxide, a suite of trace gasesnimportant for air quality and regional climate applications innurban environments. The 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing,nChina drew attention to air quality problems in urban environ-nments. Prior to and during the Olympic games, regional airnquality modifications through factory shutdowns, car restric-ntions, and construction halts in Beijing and its surroundingnareas created a unique test bed for new sensor technolo-ngies such as the QCLOPS sensor. We report the design ofnthis novel, open-path air quality sensor and the results ofnboth laboratory tests and field trials during the 2008 OlympicnGames in Beijing, China. C u00022010 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumen-ntation Engineers. [DOI: 10.1117/1.3509316]