Cantilever enhanced photoacoustic spectroscopy enables the detection of small amount of trace gases which is vital in many applications. Photoacoustic spectroscopy is one of the most sensitive optical detection schemes. It is based on detecting a gas specific acoustic wave generated that originates from the absorption of light in the medium. The sensitivity of the traditional membrane microphones is limited by electrical noise and the nonlinearity of the displacement of the mechanical sensor at high optical power levels. Conventional membrane microphones can be replaced with optically measured micromechanical cantilevers to enhance sensitivity.
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