Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy

Child mortality is high among preterm newborn infants. They are often affected by free gas in lungs and intestines, which may lead to the breakdown of vital organs. The current diagnosis is based on X-ray radiography. According to a study a bed-side, rapid, non-intrusive, and gas-specific technique for in vivo gas sensing would improve diagnosis and enhance the babies' chance of survival. The detection method is based on laser spectroscopy

Ammonium is used as a biomarker for helicobacter pylori infections. These infections are responsible for stomach ulcers. Breath analysis diagnoses the disease in a non-invasive way sparing patients a disagreeable gastroscopy.

Early fire detection technologies rely on highly sensitive detection of carbon monoxide. Coal-fired power plants, steel mills or biomass deposits use these smoke detectors to increase process and workers safety.

NH₃ is added in combustion processes to reduce emissions of the flue gas NO_x. The two compounds will react to uncritical N₂ and H₂O. To avoid any corrosive or environmental effects from overuse, the gas volume needs to be continuously monitored.

Environmental policies have been implemented worldwide to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, human activities account for more than three quarters of CO₂ emissions. They are mainly due to the combustion of fossil fuels for energy generation, transportation and industry. Remote sensing technologies have been introduced to quantify CO₂ and CO emissions in atmosphere.

H₂S occurs as a corrosive, toxic and explosive side product in the petrochemical industry. Continuous monitoring of this hazardous compound is critical to avoid corrosion of natural gas pipelines and ensure workers safety. Real-time analysis is essential to guarantee that burning fuels are H₂S clean in order to prevent acid rains.

CO₂ is a natural diluent in oil and gas deposits. When it reacts with H₂S and H₂O steel pipelines corrode. Real-time monitoring of CO₂ at natural gas custody transfer points is necessary to avoid contaminated gas from flowing downstream. Immediate measures may be taken to purify the natural gas.

Water vapour measurement is critical for gas companies to meet quality specifications and to protect pipelines from corrosion. False positives are very costly. Often the gas cannot be delivered if it is "wet".

Water vapour is often examined in combustion and propulsion processes as it is a primary product of hydrogen and hydrocarbon fuels.

Continuous monitoring of contents like CO₂ or CH₄ concentrations is essential for the efficiency of high-temperature processes in e. g. incinerators, furnaces or petrochemical refineries. Managing the CO₂ content in combustion processes simultaneously reduces greenhouse gas emissions. This is also relevant for energy generating industries like coal burning power plants.

Acetylene is a by-product in the cracking process of ethylene production. The petrochemical industry minimizes the compound via hydrogenation. This process enhances the purity and quality of the manufactured ethylene.