Hydrogen peroxide vapor cross sections: A flow cell study using laser absorption in the near infrared

Highlights: • The near infrared absorption spectra of hydrogen peroxide vapor were characterized. • Spectral features were examined near the Doppler-broadened limit. • Hydrogen peroxide vapor cross sections were determined. • Cross sections can be employed to measure hydrogen peroxide vapor concentrations. The absorption spectra of vapors of concentrated hydrogen peroxide/water mixtures (without a carrier gas) were characterized at wavelengths from 1390 to 1470 nm utilizing a near-infrared diode laser. Low pressures were employed to examine these spectral features near the Doppler-broadened limit. An advantageous portion of the spectra near 1420 nm containing several distinct H₂O₂ peaks and one well-known H₂O peak (for calibration) was identified and the cross-sections of these peaks determined. These cross section values can be employed to measure vapor-phase concentrations of H₂O₂ in propulsion, atmospheric chemistry, and sterilization applications.