NIST scientists have developed a revolutionary pressure measurement technology called the Fixed Length Optical Cavity (FLOC). This quantum-based instrument provides up to 35 times higher precision than the current national standard mercury manometer, while eliminating the need for dangerous mercury.
The FLOC works by comparing the speed of light through a gas versus a vacuum. As pressure increases, light slows proportionally in the gas-filled cavity. By comparing wavelengths of light in identical vacuum and gas-filled cavities, the FLOC precisely measures pressure.
This quantum-based technology doesn’t require recalibration at NIST, and a transportable version has been developed in partnership with industry. The FLOC can be deployed in various industrial settings and conditions, making it a safer and more versatile alternative to mercury manometers.
NIST researchers are also developing a Variable-Length Optical Cavity (VLOC) to measure the inherent refractive indexes of any gas with high accuracy. This could revolutionize pressure measurements in industries like petroleum refining, aerospace, and microchip manufacturing.
The FLOC technology has been validated through research publications and patented by NIST researchers. It has the potential to replace traditional mercury manometers and provide more accurate, reliable, and safer pressure measurements across various applications.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/thermodynamics/pressure
Keywords: reductive index, Variable-Length Optical Cavity, photonic manometer, Quantum-based metrology, pressure measurements
