Ocean Optics and Pyreos turn to Mid-IR for adulterant detection

Ocean Optics has partnered with Pyreos to develop mid-infrared (MIR) systems.

The firms said unlike traditional FT-IR spectrometers, the combination of Pyreos’ detectors and Ocean Optics applied spectroscopy knowledge will enable businesses and researchers to create rapid, accurate and field-portable devices.

One of the first OEM products from the collaboration is a device for anti-counterfeit detection in food including milk contamination. The device will screen for presence of adulterants.

The speed, compact size and robustness of MIR-based devices will enable new OEM products to meet the needs of applications such as food safety, oil quality and anti-counterfeiting.

MIR technology makes possible applications in chemical and pharmaceutical quality, food and agriculture analysis, environmental testing and scientific research.

Andrew Wallace, CEO of Pyreos, said: “Compact Mid-IR spectrometry sensors and products are now a ‘pull’ market and we see increasing awareness of new applications across the industry. Partnerships such as this are key to rapid development of new Mid-IR techniques.”

Ocean Optics has applications and OEM development experience across the UV, Visible and NIR ranges while Pyreos is a supplier of thin film PZT pyroelectric sensors used for MIR sensing including in-line arrays.

Ocean Optics and Pyreos are working on an ultra-fast, compact Mid-IR ATR reflectance system for labs which is expected in the first half of 2018.

Lora Allemeier, president of Ocean Optics, said the collaboration allows it to broaden mid-IR applications expertise.

“We will continue to explore strategic partnerships with the leading innovators in optical sensing and take on emerging analytical challenges on a global scale.”