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Published on: January 29, 2013
Sub-parts-per-billion CO2 Detection based on Dissipative Whispering Gallery Mode Microcavity Sensor
Shujing Ruan1, Guangzhen Gao1, Jianing Zhang1
1College of Physics and Electronic Engineering, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou, 221116, China.
Nature Communications
|July 3, 2026
Summary
This study introduces a new dissipative sensing method for whispering gallery mode microcavities, enabling sensitive trace gas detection. The technique converts gas absorption into measurable resonance depth variations, offering a promising approach for compact gas sensors.
Area of Science:
- Photonics and optical sensing
- Trace gas detection technologies
- Microcavity physics
Background:
- Whispering gallery mode (WGM) microcavities offer strong light-matter interactions for sensing applications.
- Conventional dispersive sensing methods using WGM microcavities are limited by small refractive index changes for trace gas detection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate a novel dissipative sensing mechanism for trace gas detection using non-functionalized WGM microcavities.
- To overcome the limitations of conventional dispersive sensing in WGM microcavities for gas analysis.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing a dissipative sensing mechanism that converts optical absorption into resonance depth variations.
- Employing thermally induced dissipation within the microcavity.
- Quantitatively measuring carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations.
Main Results:
- Achieved quantitative CO2 detection over a concentration range of 1.5 to 400 parts per million (ppm) with R² > 0.99.
- Demonstrated a low detection limit of 168 parts per trillion (ppt) with a 400-second integration time.
- Reported high accuracy of approximately 0.4% and stable sensor operation under ambient conditions.
Conclusions:
- Dissipative microcavity sensing is a viable and promising approach for highly sensitive trace gas detection.
- This method enables the development of compact, low-cost gas sensors.
- The technique offers an alternative to conventional dispersive sensing for environmental monitoring and industrial applications.
