New technique enhances Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy sensitivity for detecting extremely low levels of trace substances.

In a groundbreaking development, a research team led by Prof. GAO Minguang and Associate Prof. LI Xiangxian from the Hefei Institutes of Physical Science at the Chinese Academy of Sciences has introduced a novel method to enhance spectral resolution in Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). This advancement aims to improve the detection of ultra-low concentration trace substances containing multiple components, expanding the application of FTIR technology significantly.

FTIR is a widely used technique in various fields such as atmospheric pollution monitoring and food and drug safety testing. However, its effectiveness in detecting multi-component ultra-trace substances has been hampered by limitations in spectral resolution. The new method developed by the research team addresses this challenge by introducing a spectral resolution enhancement model based on linear prediction theory.

The researchers optimized the model by refining calculations for model parameters, determining the order, and enhancing model prediction. To validate the effectiveness of their approach, they compared the enhanced resolution results with high-resolution spectra obtained from the Bruker IFS 125 instrument. Remarkably, the relative error in spectral feature absorption bands was found to be only 0.28%, highlighting the accuracy and reliability of the model.

Factors affecting the efficacy of spectral resolution enhancement, such as the original signal-to-noise ratio, model enhancement factor, and initial resolution of the interferometric signal, were also considered. The team successfully utilized the linear prediction-based method to identify low-concentration gases and gas components with cross-absorption in the mid-infrared region. Notably, the accuracy of concentration inversion for certain gases was significantly enhanced after applying spectral resolution enhancement.

The research not only offers valuable theoretical underpinning but also provides analytical tools to enhance the detection accuracy of multi-component ultra-low concentration trace substances. By leveraging this innovative method, researchers can improve the identification and quantification of trace substances, paving the way for advancements in environmental monitoring, safety testing, and other critical applications.

This significant breakthrough in spectral resolution enhancement in FTIR technology opens up new possibilities for research and practical applications in diverse scientific domains. The findings of this study, published in Infrared Physics & Technology and Measurement journals, promise to revolutionize the field of spectroscopy and enhance the capabilities of FTIR technology in detecting and analyzing trace substances with unparalleled precision.

For more information, please visit: https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1036885

(Source: https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1036885)

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