Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 15, 2026

10:42
Infrared Degenerate Four-wave Mixing with Upconversion Detection for Quantitative Gas Sensing
Published on: March 22, 2019
Summary
This study demonstrates sub-parts-per-million (ppm) sensitivity for nitrogen dioxide (NO2) detection in flames. Utilizing laser-induced fluorescence, the method shows promise for highly sensitive NO2 measurements in combustion environments.
Area of Science:
- Chemical Physics
- Combustion Science
- Laser Spectroscopy
Background:
- Accurate measurement of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is crucial for understanding combustion processes and emissions.
- Flame diagnostics often require high sensitivity and spatial resolution for species quantification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the feasibility of achieving sub-parts-per-million (ppm) detection limits for NO2 in flames.
- To evaluate the application of laser-induced fluorescence for NO2 measurements in a methane-oxygen-nitrogen flame.
Main Methods:
- Performed NO2 fluorescence measurements in a CH4/O2/N2 flame at atmospheric pressure.
- Employed a pulsed tunable dye laser system for excitation and detection.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated the capability to achieve sub-ppm sensitivities for NO2.
- The results suggest that current laser technology is sufficient for this level of detection.
Conclusions:
- Laser-induced fluorescence is a viable technique for highly sensitive NO2 detection in flames.
- Sub-ppm NO2 detection in combustion environments is achievable with existing laser systems.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Flame Photometry: Overview
Flame photometry, also known as flame emission spectrometry, is a technique used for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of elements present in a sample using a flame as the source of excitation energy. The concept of flame photometry was realized in the early 1860s by Kirchhoff and Bunsen, who discovered that specific elements emit characteristic radiation when excited in flames. The first instrument developed for this purpose was used to measure sodium (Na) in plant ash using a Bunsen...
Flame Photometry: Lab
In a flame photometer, when a solution like potassium chloride is aspirated into the flame, the solvent evaporates, leaving behind dehydrated salt. This salt dissociates into free gaseous atoms in their ground state. Some of these atoms absorb energy from the flame, leading to their excitation. The excited atoms return to the ground state, emitting photons at characteristic wavelengths. Because only electronic transitions are involved, the resulting emission lines are very narrow. The intensity...
Fluorescence and Phosphorescence: Instrumentation
Fluorometers and spectrofluorometers are two types of instruments used for measuring molecular fluorescence. These instruments differ in how they select excitation and emission wavelengths and the type of light sources they utilize. Fluorometers use absorption interference filters to choose excitation and emission wavelengths. The excitation source in a fluorometer is typically a low-pressure mercury vapor lamp that emits intense lines distributed throughout the ultraviolet and visible regions.
Atomic Fluorescence Spectroscopy
Atomic fluorescence spectroscopy (AFS) is an analytical technique that involves the electronic transitions of atoms in a flame, furnace, or plasma being excited by electromagnetic (EM) radiation. When these atoms absorb energy, they become excited and subsequently release energy as they return to their original state. This emitted light, or "fluorescence," is observed at a right angle to the incident beam. Both absorption and emission processes transpire at distinct wavelengths, which are...
Photoluminescence: Applications
Photoluminescence offers a wide range of applications due to its inherent sensitivity and selectivity. This technique allows for both direct and indirect analyses of the analyte. Direct quantitative analysis is possible when the analyte exhibits a favorable quantum yield for fluorescence or phosphorescence. However, an indirect analysis may be feasible if the analyte is not fluorescent or phosphorescent, or if the quantum yield is unfavorable. Indirect methods include reacting the analyte with...
Confocal Fluorescence Microscopy
Confocal microscopy is an advanced microscopic technique. The prime advantage of the confocal microscope over other microscopy techniques is its ability to block the out-of-focus light from the illuminated samples using pinholes. It is widely used with fluorescence optics to obtain high-resolution, sharp contrast images. Unlike optical microscopes, confocal microscopes use a focused beam of light laser to scan the entire sample surface at different z-planes. These microscopes are, therefore,...

