Long wave infrared cavity-enhanced sensors using quantum cascade lasers

Matthew S. Taubman; David C. Scott; Tanya L. Myers; Bret D. Cannon

doi:10.1117/12.634986

17 November 2005 Long wave infrared cavity-enhanced sensors using quantum cascade lasers

Matthew S. Taubman, David C. Scott, Tanya L. Myers, Bret D. Cannon

Proceedings Volume 6010, Infrared to Terahertz Technologies for Health and the Environment; 60100C (2005) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.634986
Event: Optics East 2005, 2005, Boston, MA, United States

Abstract

Quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) are becoming well known as convenient and stable semiconductor laser sources operating in the mid- to long-wave infrared, and are able to be fabricated to operate virtually anywhere in the 3.5 to 25 micron region. This makes them an ideal choice for infrared chemical sensing, a topic of great interest at present, spanning at least three critical areas: national security, environmental monitoring and protection, and the early diagnosis of disease through breath analysis. There are many different laser-based spectroscopic chemical sensor architectures in use today, from simple direct detection through to more complex and highly sensitive systems. Many current sensor needs can be met by combining QCLs and appropriate sensor architectures, those needs ranging from UAV-mounted surveillance systems, through to larger ultra-sensitive systems for airport security. In this paper we provide an overview of various laser-based spectroscopic sensing techniques, pointing out advantages and disadvantages of each. As part of this process, we include our own results and observations for techniques under development at PNNL. We also present the latest performance of our ultra-quiet QCL control electronics now being commercialized, and explore how using optimized supporting electronics enables increased sensor performance and decreased sensor footprint for given applications.

Citation Download Citation

Matthew S. Taubman, David C. Scott, Tanya L. Myers, and Bret D. Cannon "Long wave infrared cavity-enhanced sensors using quantum cascade lasers", Proc. SPIE 6010, Infrared to Terahertz Technologies for Health and the Environment, 60100C (17 November 2005); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.634986

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