Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS)
What is TDLAS?
Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS), also known as TDLS, TLS, or TLAS, is a powerful optical technique for measuring the concentration of specific gases such as oxygen (O₂), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and water vapour (H₂O). But it can also be applied to measure internal pressure and other critical parameters in sealed containers.
TDLAS offers a major advantage over other gas detection methods: extremely low detection limits, reaching parts per billion (ppb). This level of sensitivity enables highly precise and accurate measurements, which are essential for quality control and regulatory compliance in the pharmaceutical and food industries, where product integrity and safety are paramount.
How does TDLAS work?
TDLAS is based on a simple but effective principle.
A diode laser emits a narrow beam of light through the target area, such as the headspace of a package or vial. As the beam passes through, specific gas molecules absorb light at certain wavelengths unique to them. This absorption spectrum acts as a fingerprint for each gas.
By tuning the laser to the gas’s exact absorption wavelength, the system can detect and measure how much light is absorbed. The result is a highly selective and accurate measurement of gas concentration, even at extremely low level
TDLAS as Gasporox
At Gasporox, TDLAS is at the core of our technology platform. We develop and manufacture advanced laser-based sensor systems for use in the food, pharmaceutical, and beverage industries. Our unique implementation of TDLAS allows for non-destructive, in-line and at-line gas analysis, tailored to each industry’s requirements and compliance needs.
We use TDLAS for a variety of high-precision applications, including:
- Container Closure Integrity Testing (CCIT)
- Headspace Analysis (HSA)
- Leak detection and quality control of Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP)
Through continuous in-house research and development, we are expanding the capabilities of TDLAS. This enables us to continue to offer innovative, adaptable solutions for modern production environments and strict regulatory frameworks now, and in the future ahead of us with evolving demands.
FMS and TDLAS – Understanding the Relationship
At Gasporox, we are often asked: “How does your TDLAS compare to FMS?”
The terms Frequency Modulation Spectroscopy (FMS) and Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS) are often used as if they were alternatives or competing technologies. In reality, they are not. FMS is a modulation technique commonly used within a TDLAS system to enhance sensitivity and improve signal quality. In other words, FMS represents a TDLAS-based approach with additional modulation to strengthen the signal.
TDLAS is the broader spectroscopic method used for non-destructive gas analysis. At Gasporox, our proprietary implementation of TDLAS applies alternative modulation and detection principles that achieve the same purpose as FMS, enhancing signal sensitivity and precision through different methods. This enables our technology to deliver higher sensitivity, superior stability, and more precise results than conventional FMS-based systems.
Learn More About TDLAS Applications
Headspace Analysis
Headspace analysis (HSA), also known as headspace gas analysis (HGA), is a precise technique for measuring the gas composition in the sealed space of a container, known as the headspace.
Container Closure Integrity Testing
Container Closure Integrity Testing (CCIT) is the process of evaluating whether a container and its closure system effectively maintain a sterile barrier.
Leak detection
Using our proprietary Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS) technology, we offer non-destructive leak detection by identifying and quantifying trace gases.
