J. Vander Auwera

M. Herman

K. Leroux

C. Silva Tafur

High-resolution Fourier transform spectroscopy of gas-phase molecules

High-resolution spectra of polyatomic molecules in the gas phase are recorded in the far-, mid- and near-infrared ranges using a state-of-the-art Bruker IFS 120 upgraded to 125 HR Fourier transform spectrometer. The target species are selected based on their relevance for various environments, in particular planetary atmospheres. The recorded high-resolution spectra are analyzed using home-made software with two main objectives in view:

• the characterization of the vibration-rotation energy levels structure of the studied molecules and
• the measurement with state-of-the-art accuracy of absorption line parameters (positions, absolute intensities, pressure-induced widths and shifts), possibly including their dependence with temperature.

Recent and ongoing contracts

• LAUNCH (Brussels spin-off) project SPIP (“Ultra-sensitive spectroscopy for in situ exploration”) funded by the Bruxelles Région Capitale (INNOVIRIS) (2016-2019).
• Research credit (CDR) F.R.S.-FNRS entitled “Continuum infrared absorption of gases” (2020-2022).
• Action de Recherches Concertées (ARC) entitled “Spectroscopy in support to the exploration of planetary atmospheres”, PI P. Coheur, S. Bauduin, L. Clarisse and J. Vander Auwera (2022-2027).

Technological applications

• A portable and patented homemade laser spectrometer has been developed for the high-sensitivity online and on-site detection of some important contaminants, pollutants and disinfection-by-products in water.
• Indoor Air and Water Chemistry at the Purdue Aquatics Center

Full list of publications.