Photoacoustic Chemical Sensing: Ultracompact Sources and Standoff Detection.

摘要

Photoacoustic spectroscopy (PAS) is a useful monitoring technique that is well suited for trace detection of gaseous and condensed media. We have previously demonstrated favorable PAS gas detection characteristics when the system dimensions are scaled to a micro-system design. This design includes quantum cascade laser (QCL)-based microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)-scale photoacoustic sensors that provide detection limits at parts-per-billion (ppb) levels for chemical targets. Current gas sensing research utilizes an ultra compact QCL, SpriteIR, in combination with a MEMS-scale photoacoustic cell for trace gas detection. At approximately one tenth the size of a standard commercially available QCL, SpriteIR is an essential element in the development of an integrated sensor package. We will discuss these results as well as the envisioned sensor prototype. Finally, expanding on our previously reported photoacoustic detection of condensed phase samples, we are investigating standoff photoacoustic chemical detection of these materials and will discuss preliminary results.