AN OPTIMIZED SINGLE-CHANNEL SYSTEM FOR QUANTITATIVE RAMAN-SPECTROSCOPY OF N2 AND O2

A Raman spectrometer has been constructed and optimized for quantitative measurement of N2 and O2 partial pressures. Detection limits of 54 and 62 mTorr are found for oxygen and nitrogen, respectively. The single-channel, single-dispersive-element system incorporates a high-power argon-ion laser and an optical configuration designed for maximum throughput. No D/A-A/D conversions are used. The design and performance of the instrument are discussed. Application of the system to nondestructive monitoring of air contamination in argon-filled insulating glass windows is briefly discussed. Interferometric effects from glass are considered.