Quantum Cascade Laser Technology for Gas Diagnostics

ABSTRACT: A versatile and robust system will be developed for accurate measurements of the concentration and temperature of combustion products (e.g., H2O, CO2, CO, and NO). Such diagnostics can provide crucial information for the development and testing of scramjet engines, turbine engines, and standard combustion engines. The system will also be able to provide important characterization of propulsion ground test facilities such as high-enthalpy arc heaters and combustion driven hypersonic wind tunnels. At the heart of the system will be a Mid-IR laser with a relatively wide spectral tuning range that is able to probe the so-called molecular fingerprint spectral region for the species of interest. BENEFIT: A complete laser diagnostic system will be developed that will enable a wide range of measurements useful for Air Force test center facilities. The improved diagnostics capabilities can help lead to better performing engines in a more cost effective manner. The proposed project will also lead directly to a specific line of gas sensor products for combustion monitoring and flow characterization. Furthermore, a general maturation of the Mid-IR laser technology will occur, leading to related products appropriate for a range of other higher volume applications from environmental monitoring to human breath analysis.