ChemPen: Point Gas Sensor

Block is currently developing the ChemPen (conceptual drawing shown in figure), which incorporates well established and tested Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. It is software programmable to detect virtually any gas except the diatomic molecules (oxygen, nitrogen, etc.) and with appropriate accessories can also detect liquids and solids. It performs the same function as larger broadly used FTIR analytical instruments i.e. to detect, identify and quantify substances in labs, industrial processes and many other applications.Its small size (8 inches), low weight (8 oz), low power consumption and expected very low cost gives it a high value proposition versus competing products. The ChemPen" interferometer is being built using a very sophisticated MEMS fabrication process, SUMMiT-V, developed by Sandia National Laboratory.ChemPen" is expected to be commercially available in 2010.Key Features include:Sensitivity in parts per billion meter Resolution of 8 wave numbers Spectral range of 2 14 microns For additional information about the ChemPen", please contact