Inactive

Opportunity Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), operated by the Lawrence Livermore National Security (LLNS), LLC under contract no. DE-AC52-07NA27344 (Contract 44) with the U.S. Department ... Opportunity Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), operated by the Lawrence Livermore National Security (LLNS), LLC under contract no. DE-AC52-07NA27344 (Contract 44) with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), is offering the opportunity to enter into a collaboration or to license to further develop the next generation of laser-based detection methods for rare isotopes. Summary This technology uses a high-finesse, optical cavity and two lasers to detect gaseous species via electromagnetic radiation. The analyte is introduced in between the highly reflective mirrors of the cavity. The “pump” laser transitions the analyte into an excited state, while the “probe” laser measures the population of this excited state using cavity ring-down spectroscopy (“CRDS”). These two measurements combined allow for a direct measurement of the analyte and account for interference from other absorbing species and spectrometer background fluctuations. Background This technique was developed to detect minute quantities of gaseous species using laser spectroscopy, the most sensitive of which utilizes cavity-enhanced methods; however, the sensitivity of these methods is hindered by variations in background signal measurement. This invention overcomes this hinderance, as it does not have experimental requirements needed to improve sensitivity, adaptation, and deployment in the field. Technology Description 2-Photon, 2-Color, Cavity Ring-Down Spectroscopy (“2P3C”) requires two light sources, an optical cavity, and a detector. A gaseous analyte is introduced in between the highly reflective mirrors of the cavity. The “pump” laser is injected into the cavity and excites the analyte into an elevated quantum state. The second “probe” laser measures the population of this excited state using CRDS. The pump is then turned off, and the probe can measure the background of the CRDS signal. Benefits: This technology increases the sensitivity measurements without the exacting experimental conditions required by conventional laser spectroscopy. It has the ability to detect ultra-trace species, such as less abundant isotopologues and radioisotopes. All these benefits could be realized even outside the lab environment’ Potential Applications Field-deployable laser spectroscopy Note: THIS IS NOT A PROCUREMENT. Interested companies should provide a written statement of interest, which includes the following: 1. Company Name and address. 2. The name, address, and telephone number of a point of contact. 3. A description of corporate expertise and facilities relevant to commercializing this technology. Written responses should be directed to: Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Innovation and Partnerships Office P.O. Box 808, L-779 Livermore, CA 94551-0808 Attention: IL #13644 OR EMAIL - Bono4@llnl.gov