Tunable Diode laser absorption spectroscopy

Description

Components and Functionality:

1. Tunable Diode Laser: The heart of the TDLAS system. This semiconductor laser can be precisely tuned to emit light at specific wavelengths that correspond to the absorption lines of the target gas molecule.

2. Optical System: Directs the laser beam through the gas sample and to a detector. This may involve beam shaping optics, lenses, and mirrors to ensure optimal beam alignment and maximize signal strength.

3. Gas Cell (or Path): The region where the laser beam interacts with the gas sample. The path length can be varied depending on the application and the desired sensitivity.

4. Detector: Typically a photodiode that converts the transmitted light intensity into an electrical signal.  

5. Electronics and Data Acquisition: Processes the detector signal, amplifies it, and converts it into a digital format for data analysis. 

Key Advantages of TDLAS:

• High Sensitivity and Specificity: TDLAS offers exceptional sensitivity and selectivity for detecting and quantifying specific gases in complex mixtures.
• Real-Time Analysis: Enables rapid and continuous gas measurements, crucial for process control and monitoring applications.

• Non-Intrusive Measurements: In many cases, TDLAS can be used for non-invasive measurements, eliminating the need for sample extraction.

• Compact and Portable: Advances in laser technology and miniaturization have led to the development of compact and portable TDLAS sensors.

• Versatility: Applicable to a wide range of gases and applications, including environmental monitoring, industrial process control, and medical diagnostics.