Dynamic Multicomponent Optical Analyzer for Chemical Weapon (CW) Exposure Studies

In this SBIR Phase II program, Los Gatos Research (LGR) proposes to design, develop and test an advanced laser-based gas analyzer optimized for chemical weapon exposure studies based on cavity enhanced absorption in the mid-infrared spectral region. Building on the successful Phase I effort, this analyzer will provide sensitive and accurate quantification of several chemical weapons agents through real-time measurements of high-resolution mid-IR absorption spectra. The instrument will employ a novel cavity enhanced absorption technique that employs an optical cavity as measurement cell for significantly improved detection sensitivity, and mid-infrared quantum cascade lasers for high specificity, precision and low false positives. The Phase II instrument will be capable of providing rapid quantification of chemical agents and enable improved understanding of the dose-response characteristics of the subject in real time.