Real-Time Trace Gas Sensing of Fluorocarbons using a Swept-wavelength External Cavity Quantum Cascade Laser

Journal Article · Sun May 04 00:00:00 EDT 2014 · Analyst, 139(9):2047-2056

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1039/c3an01642k· OSTI ID:1132217

Phillips, Mark C.; Taubman, Matthew S.; Bernacki, Bruce E.; Cannon, Bret D.; Stahl, Robert D.; Schiffern, John T.; Myers, Tanya L.

We present results demonstrating real-time sensing of four different fluorocarbons at low-ppb concentrations using an external cavity quantum cascade laser (ECQCL) operating in a swept-wavelength configuration. The ECQCL was repeatedly swept over its full tuning range at a 20 Hz rate with a scan rate of 3535 cm-1/s, and a detailed characterization of the ECQCL scan stability and repeatability is presented. The sensor was deployed on a mobile automotive platform to provide spatially resolved detection of fluorocarbons in outdoor experiments. Noise-equivalent detection limits of 800-1000 parts-per-trillion (ppt) are demonstrated for 1 s integration times.

• Research Organization: Pacific Northwest National Lab. (PNNL), Richland, WA (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• DOE Contract Number: AC05-76RL01830
• OSTI ID: 1132217
• Report Number(s): PNNL-SA-98151; NN2001000
• Journal Information: Analyst, 139(9):2047-2056, Journal Name: Analyst, 139(9):2047-2056
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

infrared spectroscopy
quantum cascade laser
trace gas sensing