Advanced Analyzers for Monitoring Submarine Atmosphere
Navy SBIR FY2018.1


Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2018.1
Topic No.: N181-049
Topic Title: Advanced Analyzers for Monitoring Submarine Atmosphere
Proposal No.: N181-049-1281
Firm: Vescent Photonics LLC
6770 W 52nd Ave # B
Arvada, Colorado 80002
Contact: Mark Yeo
Phone: (303) 296-6766
Web Site: http://www.vescent.com
Abstract: Atmospheric monitoring on U.S. Navy submarines has been primarily based on mass spectrometry. However, the high cost of repair and the lack of field serviceability are drawbacks to this technique. Vescent Photonics proposes to design a dual comb spectrometer in the mid-infrared (3-12 A�m) wavelength region as an alternative atmospheric monitoring system. Dual comb spectroscopy can achieve high signal to noise in short acquisition times over a wide optical spectrum, enabling simultaneous concentration measurements of multiple gas species in submarine atmospheres. Vescent will refine its near-infrared (1-2 A�m) frequency comb technology for use at mid-infrared wavelengths, allowing highly sensitive detection of molecular spectral �?ofingerprints�?? for identification of gas constituents and the measurement of their concentrations. Vescent�?Ts optical frequency comb technology is based on high reliability fiber optic components from the telecommunications industry, reducing the frequency and cost of maintenance of the proposed monitoring system.
Benefits: Mid-infrared dual comb spectroscopy has applications in environmental monitoring, measuring impurities in industrial processes, trace gas detection, and for atmospheric greenhouse gas monitoring. Dual comb spectroscopy has been demonstrated at a proof of principle level to be able to detect biomarkers associated with certain diseases and may be used as a non-invasive medical diagnostic tool.

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