Long wavelength mid-infrared multi-gases spectroscopy using tunable single-mode slot waveguide quantum cascade laser

Single-mode tunable quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) are promising for high -resolution and highly sensitive trace gases sensing across the mid-infrared (MIR) region. We report on the development of a tunable single-mode slot waveguide QCL array in the long wavelength part of the MIR regime (>12 mu m). This laser array exhibits a tuning range of around 12 cm(-1), from 735.3 to 747.3 cm(-1). Using this developed single-mode tunable QCL, we demonstrate individual gas sensing, yielding the detection limit of 940 ppb and 470 ppb for acetylene and o-xylene, respectively. To verify the potential of the developed QCL array in multi-species gas detection, laser absorption measurements of two mixed gases of acetylene and o-xylene were conducted, showing the absorption features of the corresponding gases agree well with the theoretical predictions.(c) 2023 Optica Publishing Group under the terms of the Optica Open Access Publishing Agreement

Automated summary

Tunable single-mode slot waveguide QCL array has been developed for high-resolution and highly sensitive trace gases sensing in the MIR region. This laser array exhibits a tuning range of approximately 12 cm(-1) and has been successfully used for individual gas sensing and absorption measurements of mixed gases.