Hollow-core fiber-based photothermal spectroscopy for hydrogen detection
Optics Letters
|August 29, 2025
Summary
This study introduces an optical hydrogen sensor using photothermal spectroscopy. It detects hydrogen down to 77 ppm, revealing a unique signal decrease at higher concentrations due to thermodynamic interactions.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Spectroscopy
- Gas Sensing Technologies
Background:
- Accurate hydrogen detection is crucial for safety and industrial processes.
- Photothermal spectroscopy offers a sensitive method for gas analysis.
- Hollow-core fibers provide a unique platform for light-matter interactions in gas sensing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and demonstrate an optical hydrogen sensor utilizing photothermal spectroscopy.
- To investigate hydrogen detection limits and performance characteristics.
- To explore the underlying physics of the observed photothermal signal behavior.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a hollow-core fiber for optical measurements.
- Employed photothermal spectroscopy targeting the hydrogen quadrupole absorption line at 2121.8 nm.
- Performed experiments to determine sensor sensitivity and noise equivalent concentration.
Main Results:
- Achieved hydrogen detection as low as 77 ppm with a 1-second time constant.
- Demonstrated a noise equivalent concentration of 7.2 ppm with extended integration.
- Observed a counter-intuitive decrease in photothermal signal at higher hydrogen concentrations.
Conclusions:
- The developed sensor shows promise for sensitive hydrogen gas detection.
- The observed signal decrease is attributed to complex thermodynamic interactions within the hollow-core fiber.
- Further research into thermodynamic effects can optimize sensor performance.
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