Researchers at Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) France have come up with a new development to detect constituents of a person’s breath. The constituents can be varied ranging from greenhouse gases, other gases, as well as molecules. The process involves tapping middle infrared light source for the needful.
Physically, the new development is a compact system that resembles a tiny suitcase. In terms of constitution, the system is simple too. It contains only two parts – a standard laser combined with a photonic chip that runs across a few millimeters.
Irrespective, the mid-infrared spectrum has significance for scientist to undertake research. The wavelength range of the spectrum is such that light can detect a range of particles. These are particles that play an important role in the environment and human health.
So far, infrared laser systems have had limited mobility. This is because they involve complex hardware prone to damage.
To address these shortcomings, the technology developed by EPFL could be a game-changer.
Researchers combined Fiber Laser with several components for desired apparatus for study
Meanwhile, for the research part, the team employed a commercial grade fiber laser. This then combined with a micrometer waveguide chip to produce light waves in the mid-infrared ligsht spectrum. Following this, a spectrometer added to the apparatus to demonstrate the strength of this light source. Finally, the apparatus successfully detects the presence and concentration of acetylene.
Functionally, the apparatus uses a compact and robust fiber laser for emitting light in a specific wavelength range. The laser beam measuring half a millimeter in length and one micrometer across is directed through a waveguide. The beam can alter the frequency of light of the passing medium.
