Passive coherent dual-comb spectroscopy based on optical-optical modulation with free running lasers

Abstract

Dual-comb spectroscopy is a powerful spectroscopic tool with ultrahigh-resolution, high-sensitivity properties, which opens up opportunities for the parallel detection of multi-species molecules. However, in its conventional form, highly stable laser combs with sophisticated control systems are required to perform dual-comb spectroscopy. Here, a passive mutually coherent dual-comb spectroscopy system via an optical-optical modulation method is addressed, where all fast phase-locking electronics are retired. Without post computer-based phase-correction, a high degree of mutual coherence between the two combs with a relative comb-tooth linewidth of 10 mHz is achieved, corresponding to a coherent time of 100 s. To demonstrate the performance and versatility of the system, the dual comb spectrometer is applied to record the mode-resolved single molecular spectra as well as parallel detected spectra of mixed gases including CO2, CO and C2H2 that well agree with the established spectral parameters. Our technique exhibits flexible wavelength tuning capability in the near-infrared region and can be potentially extended to the mid-infrared region for more applications.