The application of quantum cascade lasers to mid-infrared gas sensing

This thesis explains the development of a quantum cascade laser based gas sensor and the verification of performance of the resulting product. The capability to detect trace levels of multiple species in varying physical conditions, specifically high temperature is shown.Optical designs capable of allowing the measurement technique to be used in a variety of applications have been developed, specifically multi-pass gas absorption cells. The accurate, precise and high speed analysis of the resulting data is made possible by spectral analysis algorithms. These developments and techniques were then applied to high temperature spectroscopic measurements. Spectra recorded at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory were used to calibrate high temperature measurements. The performance of the technology was thoroughly tested at the National Physical Laboratory. The resulting sensors have since been used to study the exhaust gases produced by a variety engine types ranging from cars to ships as well as atmospheric measurements.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

engd

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

doctoral-pg

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

University of Strathclyde

Year dc:date.issued

2011

Author dc:creator

• Black, Paul Richie

DOI

10.48730/ng1q-mg19

Identifier

T12823

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:strathclyde:cj82k7395