Submillimeter and THz Detection of Chemical-Warfare Agents in Air

Published

December 31, 2004

Author(s)

Vyacheslav B. Podobedov, R J. Lavrich, T M. Korter, Gerald T. Fraser, David F. Plusquellic, A C. Samuels

Abstract

Experimental measurements and theoretical calculations were performed to assess the potential for using continuous-wave submillimeter and THz (far-infrared) linear-absorption spectroscopies to detect chemical-warfare agents in air at ambient temperatures and pressures. The experimental studies used three different instruments: a far-infrared, Fourier-transform, polarizing interferometer; a frequency-stabilized, backward-wave oscillator (BWO); and a near-infrared, laser-pumped, THz photomixer. The sensors were evaluated on dimethyl methyl phosphonate (DMMP, C3H9O3P), a common simulant for nerve agents. Recommendations are provided for improving submillimeter and far-infrared methods for the detection of chemical-warfare agents.

Citation

NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR) -

Volume

7134

NIST Pub Series

NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR)

Pub Type

NIST Pubs

Keywords

chemical agent, chemical warfare, dimethyl methyl phosphonate, spectroscopy, submillimeter radiation, terahertz, THz

Citation

Podobedov, V. , Lavrich, R. , Korter, T. , Fraser, G. , Plusquellic, D. and Samuels, A. (2004), Submillimeter and THz Detection of Chemical-Warfare Agents in Air, NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD (Accessed July 18, 2024)