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Updated: Jun 4, 2026

Real-time Breath Analysis by Using Secondary Nanoelectrospray Ionization Coupled to High Resolution Mass Spectrometry
Published on: March 9, 2018
Detecting localized trace species in air using radar resonance-enhanced multi-photon ionization
Arthur Dogariu1, Richard B Miles
1Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08544, USA. adogariu@princeton.edu
This study demonstrates a novel microwave-scattering technique for detecting trace gases like nitric oxide (NO) in ambient air up to 10 meters away. The method shows a linear response for NO detection at parts-per-billion levels.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Spectroscopy
- Environmental Monitoring
Background:
- Accurate detection of trace molecular species is crucial for environmental and safety applications.
- Standoff detection offers advantages for monitoring hazardous or inaccessible environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the capabilities of a microwave-scattering-based resonance-enhanced multi-photon ionization technique.
- To evaluate the standoff detection limits and linear response of this technique for trace species in ambient air.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a microwave-scattering-based resonance-enhanced multi-photon ionization technique.
- Performed spectral and dynamic studies of molecular species (NO, CO, Xe, Ar).
- Assessed detection limits for trace species in atmospheric pressure air.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated 10-meter scale standoff detection of nitric oxide (NO).
- Achieved a linear response for NO detection down to parts-per-billion (10^9) levels in ambient air.
- Successfully detected various molecular species in pure form and as trace contaminants.
Conclusions:
- The developed technique is effective for standoff detection of trace gases like NO in ambient air.
- The system exhibits high sensitivity and a reliable linear response, suitable for environmental monitoring.
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