New laser technique may help detect chemical warfare in atmosphere

Phys.org  March 26, 2018
A team of researchers in the US (University of Central Florida, industry partner) present a new platform for mid-infrared dual-comb Fourier-transform spectroscopy based on a pair of ultra-broadband subharmonic optical parametric oscillators pumped by two phase-locked thulium-fibre combs. The system provides fast, moving-parts-free, simultaneous acquisition of 350,000 spectral data points and parallel detection of 22 trace molecular species in a gas mixture. It can detect at concentrations of one part per billion. The research could open the door for developing non-invasive technology, including sensors for airborne agents and traces of life in space… read more. TECHNICAL ARTICLE