The Research Counil of Norway, Commercialization project – Proof of Concept
Jana Jágerská/UiT Project Leader, April 2024 – March 2027
Many high-precision trace gas sensors are large, expensive, and confined to labs. sCENTsor aims to change that. Building on earlier work (MicroSense, sCENT, TFS UiTrace), our team has designed novel ultra-thin, free-standing membrane waveguides operating in the mid-infrared that enable on-chip detection down to parts-per-billion (ppb) levels, including identification of different isotopes and their ratios.
What make sCENTsor special
- Record sensitivity & selectivity: We have demonstrated detection of CH₄ at ~0.2 ppm, CO₂ isotopes at ~20 ppb, and accurate isotope-ratio determinations.
- Free-standing waveguides with “air-like” modes: The waveguide mode is largely in air, maximizing interaction with trace gases, while maintaining low losses and minimal spectral artefacts.
- Microlitre sample volumes: The sensor requires only very small gas samples, making it suitable for compact and field-use applications.
Project goals
- Prototype development: Move from proof-of-concept to a functional demonstrator that works outside ideal lab conditions.
- Real-world validation: Test and validate performance with end-users, through field campaigns (e.g. with Cells in the Cold laboratory; iC3 centre at UiT).
- Commercial readiness: Prepare for licensing or spin-off; define use cases; protect IP; map the pathway toward adoption.
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