Compact Fourier transform spectrometer without moving parts

Chu-Yu Huang; B. Estroff; Wei-Chih Wang

doi:10.1117/12.915228

19 April 2012 Compact Fourier transform spectrometer without moving parts

Chu-Yu Huang, B. Estroff, Wei-Chih Wang

Proceedings Volume 8348, Health Monitoring of Structural and Biological Systems 2012; 83480W (2012) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.915228
Event: SPIE Smart Structures and Materials + Nondestructive Evaluation and Health Monitoring, 2012, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

Fourier transform spectroscopy (FTS) is a potent analytical tool for chemical and biological analysis, but is limited by system size, expense, and robustness. To make FTS technology more accessible, we present a compact, inexpensive FTS system based on a novel liquid crystal (LC) interferometer. This design is unique because the optical path difference (OPD) is controlled by voltage applied to the LC cell. The OPD is further improved by reflecting the polarized incident light through the LC several times before reaching the second polarizer and measurement. This paper presents the theoretical model and numerical simulations for the liquid crystal Fourier transform spectrometer (LCFTS), and experimental results from the prototype. Based on the experimental results, the LCFTS performs in accordance with the theoretical predictions, achieving a maximum OPD of 210μm and a resolution of 1nm at a wavelength of 630nm. The instrumental response refresh rate is just under 1 second. Absorbance measurements were conducted for single and mixed solutions of deionized water and isopropyl alcohol, demonstrating agreement with a commercial system and literature values. We also present the LCFTS transmission spectra for varying concentrations of potassium permanganate to show system sensitivity.

Citation Download Citation

Chu-Yu Huang, B. Estroff, and Wei-Chih Wang "Compact Fourier transform spectrometer without moving parts", Proc. SPIE 8348, Health Monitoring of Structural and Biological Systems 2012, 83480W (19 April 2012); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.915228

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KEYWORDS

Liquid crystals

Fourier transforms

Mirrors

Spectroscopy

Refractive index

Absorbance

Molecules

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