Abstract
Breath analysis is an attractive field of research, due to its high potential for non-invasive medical diagnostics. Among others, laser-based absorption spectroscopy is an excellent method for the detection of gases in exhaled breath, because it can combine a high sensitivity with a good selectivity, and a high temporal resolution. Here, we use a fast-scanning continuous wave, singly-resonant Optical Parametric Oscillator (wavelength range between 3 and 4 μm, linewidth 40 MHz, output power > 1 W, scanning speed 100 THz/s) with Off-Axis Integrated Cavity Output Spectroscopy for rapid and sensitive trace gas detection. Real-time, low- ppbv detection of ethane is demonstrated in exhaled human breath during free exhalations. Also, simultaneous, real-time multi-component gas detection of ethane, methane and water was performed in exhaled breath using a wide spectral coverage over 17 cm(-1) in 1 second. Furthermore, real-time detection of acetone, a molecule with a wide absorption spectrum, was shown in exhaled breath, with a sub-second time resolution (0.4 s).
Highlights
Breathing is an important process that provides our body with oxygen and removes carbon dioxide from the body
The source of exhaled gases can be of exogenous origin via inspiration air or the skin, via ingested foods or beverages; it can be produced in the mouth, nose, sinuses and airways, or can come from the blood via the alveolar-capillary junction in the lungs [1]
In our recent work [13] we have shown that fast scanning continuous wave SinglyResonant Optical Parametric Oscillator (SRO) incorporated with Off-Axis Integrated Cavity Output Spectroscopy (OA-ICOS) is a powerful tool for rapid and sensitive trace gas detection
Summary
Breathing is an important process that provides our body with oxygen and removes carbon dioxide from the body. It is a complex process of gas exchange in the alveoli by diffusion of gasses over the lung capillaries. Breath analysis is an attractive and promising field for diagnostics and monitoring in medicine It is non-invasive and safe, and allows easy sample collection, even from very sick, old people or neonates. It provides physicians and patients with real-time results, which is important for early disease diagnostics
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