Infrared technology can provide a wealth of information related to biological and chemical hazards in the environment. However, this technology mostly exists in the form of bulky instrumentation on optical benches in academic laboratories. We discuss the transition of IR sensing to various points-of-need applications, including food and water safety, bioreactor process control and chemical analysis of drinking water. In particular, in remote locations the access to clean drinking water is critical to soldiers’ health. Mid-infrared spectroscopy is a powerful tool for identification and quantification of a wide range of common organic and inorganic compounds. In this contribution we present data demonstrating proof-of-concept of a quantum cascade laser (QCL)-based infrared sensor for evaluation of toxic industrial chemicals (TICs) and toxic industrial materials (TIMs) and discuss the path for development of miniaturized, point-of-need IR photonic integrated circuits (IR-PIC).
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