Application Of Diode Lasers To Atmospheric Diagnostics

Abstract

Diode lasers provide reliable, inexpensive and compact sources of light readily usable for the detection of virtually any small molecule in the gas phase. In particular, near-infrared and visible diodes exhibit properties especially attractive to real-world measurement applications: operation at room temperature, fiber optic compatibility and minimal power requirements. These lasers can be used in rugged instruments designed for long-term, unattended operation. In this paper, a diverse range of applications in atmospheric sensing is discussed.