Single-Chip Integration of MEMS Micropumps with Optical Waveguides for Laser Absorption Spectroscopy

Project Information

VacLAS-Chip

Grant agreement ID: 101067268

DOI

10.3030/101067268

Project closed

EC signature date 10 August 2022

Start date 1 April 2023

End date 31 March 2026

Funded under

• Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)

Total cost

No data

EU contribution

€ 284 179,68

Coordinated by

UNIVERSITETET I TROMSOE - NORGES ARKTISKE UNIVERSITET
Norway

Periodic Reporting for period 2 - VacLAS-Chip (Single-Chip Integration of MEMS Micropumps with Optical Waveguides for Laser Absorption Spectroscopy)

Reporting period: 2025-04-01 to 2026-03-31

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

Sensitive gas spectroscopy is typically performed at sub-atmospheric pressure to enhance absorption line resolution, enabling precise detection and analysis of gas compositions. The primary objective of this project is to develop a miniature system capable of reducing pressure within a microlitre-volume chamber, seamlessly integrated with a midinfrared nanophotonic gas detection unit for high-precision gas sensing.

During the project, the focus partially shifted towards the development of a more versatile spectrometer based on a programmable photonic integrated circuit (PIC). At the time of its conception, this PIC represented a unique technological advancement, leveraging the specialized expertise of the project collaborators. This innovative device offers adaptability for multiple applications, including wavelength multiplexing for data transfer, Raman spectra analysis, and gas absorption spectra analysis, thereby broadening the scope and impact of the original objectives.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

A waveguide chip has been integrated with a microfluidic cell, and connected to commercial piezoelectric micropumps. A different type of micropump, based on thermal creep, is being investigated for future integration.

A new photonic integrated circuit spectrometer / optical filter has been developed. This includes a theoretical basis for the new concept, proof-of-concept demonstration, and first application for laser wavelength tuning shown in an experiment. The results have been shared in 2 publications (1 published, 1 under review available as preprint), and a third one is in peer-review.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

During this project, we have developed a novel spectrometer / optical filter based on programmable photonic circuits. This was unplanned development in the extent of this project. Being a novel technology, further funding of this activity is desirable to explore the applications of the technology and improve it. While the theoretical foundations for this technology have been made available (publication preprint), it has also been tested and the results will be submitted for publication soon.