New methods for precision gas spectroscopy

Purpose and goal

The main purpose of the project was to clarify the possibilities and potential for a gas sensor equipment based on Raman detection for forensic field investigations. The report that the project resulted in investigates both the technical and market potential for such an equipment, which has confirmed and enforced our belief that it will be realizable within a reasonable time frame and with a very good market potential. We have also been able to define a more concrete development strategy and a more detailed description of the necessary development steps.

Expected results and effects

The project report investigates which technical concepts related to Raman detection have the largest potential for a hand-held and robust gas sensor equipment and lists a number of use cases where this kind of instrument is likely to fill a need and have market advantages as compared to equipment based on existing technology. Based on this report, we have now jointly applied for further funding to realize a fully functional prototype within two years that is then planned to result in a product shortly after.

Planned approach and implementation

The project has been characterized by a good collaboration between the partners. The future product owner has performed a market analysis, the end user has related the proposed equipment to forensic deployment, the research institute has investigated the technical possibilities and an additional industrial partner has investigated the possibilities and challenges related to an effective and scalable production of the key components. The partners have furthermore some overlap in their respective field of expertise, which has resulted in an efficient collaboration.