| 摘要 |
<p>A gas analysis cell (110) positioned within an optical resonant cavity in a gas analysis system is disclosed wherein the cell (110) includes a flow of buffer gas which forms a ''dam'', thereby protecting the optical elements (120-122) in the analysis system. The analysis cell (110) includes an inlet (134) for introducing a gas sample into the analysis chamber (126) of the cell. Two buffer gas inlet ports (140, 142), one on each end of the cell, are provided to introduce a flow of buffer gas which is directed past optical elements (120-122) in the system adjacent the ends of the cell. Two output ports (144, 146) are located at the ends of the analysis chamber (126) to remove the buffer gas and gas sample mixture. The flow of buffer gas acts to confine the gas sample within the analysis chamber (126) and reduce adverse effects which occur when the gas sample comes in contact with the optical elements (120-122) of the system. By providing a constant non-turbulent flow of gas adjacent the system optics, adverse changes in index of refraction are avoided, thus reducing beam steering and Schlieren effects which can occur when Brewster windows or other optics are used to constrain the gas sample within the analysis cell. The buffer gas flow in the analysis cell (110) of the present invention eliminates the need for gas cell windows which have intrinsic losses. This in turn minimizes losses which cause lower circulating intracavity power and signal strength.</p> |
