title: Dual-comb spectroscopy based on quantum-cascade-laser frequency combs.
abstract: Dual-comb spectroscopy performed in the mid-infrared-where molecules have their strongest rotovibrational absorption lines-offers the promise of high spectral resolution broadband spectroscopy with very short acquisition times (μs) and no moving parts. Recently, we demonstrated frequency comb operation of a quantum-cascade-laser. We now use that device in a compact, dual-comb spectrometer. The noise properties of the heterodyne beat are close to the shot noise limit. Broadband (15 cm(-1)) high-resolution (80 MHz) absorption spectroscopy of both a GaAs etalon and water vapour is demonstrated, showing the potential of quantum-cascade-laser frequency combs as the basis for a compact, all solid-state, broadband chemical sensor.
authors.affiliation: Institute for Quantum Electronics, ETH Zurich, Zurich CH-8093, Switzerland.
authors.forename: Gustavo
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Villares
authors.affiliation: Institute for Quantum Electronics, ETH Zurich, Zurich CH-8093, Switzerland.
authors.forename: Andreas
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Hugi
authors.affiliation: Alpes Lasers SA, 1-3 Max.-de-Meuron, C.P. 1766, Neuchâtel CH-2000, Switzerland.
authors.forename: Stéphane
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Blaser
authors.affiliation: Institute for Quantum Electronics, ETH Zurich, Zurich CH-8093, Switzerland.
authors.forename: Jérôme
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Faist