An open-path QCL-based sensor for fast-response and high-sensitivity measurements of atmospheric ammonia

The paper presents a high-precision, fast-response, and low-power open-path quantum cascade laser (QCL) based sensor for measuring atmospheric ammonia (NH3). The sensor has a detection limit (1σ) of 0.53 ppbv at a 10 Hz sampling rate, with power consumption as low as 50W. The performance of the sensor fully meets the technical requirements for the eddy covariance (EC) flux measurement of NH3.

The EC measurement system based on the sensor has a lower detection limit of around 17 ng m-2 s-1. This NH3 sensor shows a wide range of environmental adaptability, being suitable for versatile deployment under different field conditions.