Towards a microcavity-based broadband aerosol particle detector

Loading...
Thumbnail Image
Author(s)
Williamson, Jacob Russell
Advisor(s)
Editor(s)
Associated Organization(s)
Organizational Unit
Organizational Unit
Supplementary to:
Abstract
Microscopic airborne particles, called aerosols, are strongly correlated with negative health outcomes and require robust detection methods to quantify. Light scattering instruments are already widely available, but are either too large, not sensitive enough, or too expensive for the average consumer. CO$_2$ detection is another component of air quality, but is not sufficient to predict particulate matter levels. Additionally, while some sensors use cavity enhancement in some form, they also use expensive optical components or require large cavity lengths to work properly. In this thesis, I describe a next-generation sensor using broadband incoherent light in a cavity-enhanced transmission detection scheme and discuss progress towards miniaturization of these sensors. Chapter 2 goes over the electromagnetic theory of Fabry-P\'erot cavities in addition to detailing the current state of the art for microcavities, aerosol detectors, and cavity-based aerosol detection. Chapter 3 discusses progress towards microcavities, including laser micromachining, fiber-based microcavities, and our patent-pending microcavity array concept. Chapter 4 details our work into aerosol detection starting with a simple wire transit test, then detailing an inkjet-based particle generator used for initial testing. Finally, Chapter 4 ends with our aerosol detection tests using aerosolized isopropyl alcohol and our characterization of the detection method compared with a commercial particle counter. Future pursuits are included in the Conclusion section.
Sponsor
Date
2024-12-02
Extent
Resource Type
Text
Resource Subtype
Dissertation
Rights Statement
Rights URI