Recently, the German microelectronics research institute IHP-Leibniz Institute has partnered with the German Aerospace Center to develop a compact and cost-effective gas mass spectrometry sensing system. This innovative system is the first in the world to integrate transmitters and receivers using silicon wafers, marking a significant advancement in sensor technology.
The IHP-Leibniz team has created a cost-efficient method for manufacturing germanium-based wafers that operate at frequencies between 238 GHz and 252 GHz. These components are fabricated using standard silicon processing techniques, which means they can be produced using existing semiconductor equipment. This approach not only reduces production costs but also helps maintain high performance while making the sensors more affordable.
Although the current prototype of the silicon-germanium transmitter and receiver chip is still limited in scope, the research team emphasizes that it's just an initial version. They plan to release a more advanced iteration in the near future, which could significantly improve the system's capabilities.
In a recent demonstration, the IHP-Leibniz team used an optical test setup to house the transmit and receive modules. The antenna gain was enhanced using a lens, and a gas absorption unit measuring about 0.6 meters was placed between the transmitter and receiver. During operation, the receiver’s intermediate frequency (IF) signal is recorded as a function of transmission frequency using standard laboratory techniques. The system includes a local oscillator at both the transmitter and receiver, with its frequency stabilized by an external phase-locked loop (PLL) circuit. Two PLL units, operating with two reference frequencies that have a fixed offset, ensure a stable IF frequency throughout the scan, allowing for the detection of even minute changes in gas absorption.
The new gas sensors developed by IHP-Leibniz and the German aerospace agency show great potential for various applications. They can be used for detecting toxic gases, monitoring chemical processes in the semiconductor industry, and even in healthcare settings—such as analyzing exhaled breath to help diagnose lung diseases. With their small size, low cost, and high sensitivity, these sensors could revolutionize multiple industries in the coming years.
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