Phys.org January 12, 2022
Researchers in the Netherlands developed and demonstrated a different approach to spectral sensing which dramatically simplifies the requirements on the hardware and allows the monolithic integration of the sensors. They used an array of resonant-cavity-enhanced photodetectors, each featuring a distinct spectral response in the 850-1700 nm wavelength range. They showed that prediction models can be built directly using the responses of the photodetectors, despite the presence of multiple broad peaks, releasing the need for spectral reconstruction. They used the sensor to measure the nutritional properties of many materials including milk and to classify different types of plastic. The sensor provided comparable accuracy in the prediction of conventional spectrometers. As spectral reconstruction is not needed in their system the signals generated by the sensors can be sent straight to the analysis algorithms which significantly simplifies the design requirements for the device…read more. Open Access TECHNICAL ARTICLE
Cross section of the sensor. Credit: Author provided