Abstract

We demonstrate a prototype mid-wave to long-wave infrared supercontinuum, Fourier transform sensor capable of chemical detection and identification at 3.6 m. The system utilizes a 150 mW supercontinuum source with a continuous spectrum from 1.6–11 μm and an M $^2$ < 1.4, from 3 < $\lambda {}$ < 11 μm, to provide high brightness at the target. We measure scattering spectra from powder particles on soda-lime glass down to a concentration of 7.4 μg/cm $^2$ and show that they match theoretical spectra simulated via a Bobbert–Vlieger model. Unlike diffuse scattering measurements performed on commercial Fourier transform infrared spectrometers, this standoff sensor collects a numerical aperture of 0.0375 and received powers are four orders of magnitude lower than probe powers.

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