Ocean Insight has launched a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) spectral sensor that provides extended spectral range and performance in a package more accessible than traditional lab-based instrumentation.
The NanoQuest MEMS is based on Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) technology that allows for continuous-wave Michelson interferometer to be created monolithically on a MEMS chip. This allows detection of all wavelengths across the 1350 to 2500 nm range using a single-photodetector design to reduce instrument footprint and maintain a low-noise, high-stability performance.
The MEMS device comes with an optical fiber and operating software and can be coupled with light sources and accessories to configure systems for absorbance/transmission or reflectance measurements.
Near-infrared (NIR) applications for the sensor could include authentication of counterfeit products, characterization and quantification of food, soil nutrients and industrial materials as well as compositional analysis of bodily fluids and other biological specimens.
In industrial applications, the MEMS device offers scalability, low power needs and tolerance to vibration and other motion effects.
