Mid-IR Range Quantum-Cascade Lasers in Compact Optoacoustic Gas Analyzers

Abstract

The generation regimes of quantum-cascade lasers for optoacoustic sensors of methane and ammonia are examined, and the tuning and output characteristics of these lasers depending on current and temperature are presented. The results of experiments on the concentration sensitivity of working samples of the test instruments developed on the basis of these lasers are presented. It is shown that the linear dynamic range of measurement of methane concentration by the optoacoustic gas analyzer covers approximately four decades: from ~0.3 to ~2000–3000 ppm CH4.