photoacoustic spectroscopy

chemistry

Also known as: optoacoustic spectroscopy

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July 1, 2026

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Photoacoustic spectroscopy, also known as optoacoustic spectrometry, is a technique used in chemical analysis. It measures pressure waves that are generated when a substance absorbs chopped electromagnetic radiation. These pressure waves are detected using microphones or piezoelectric transducers.1

This method is a variation of ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry. In standard spectrophotometry, instruments measure the electromagnetic radiation absorbed, scattered, or emitted by a sample. Photoacoustic spectroscopy, however, detects the expansion and contraction of the analyte as it absorbs radiation, creating pressure waves. This technique allows for the analysis of substances that may not strongly absorb light in the ultraviolet-visible spectrum.1

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chemical analysis
Ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry
…the technique is known as photoacoustic, or optoacoustic, spectrometry. Photoacoustic spectrometers typically employ microphones or piezoelectric transducers as detectors. Pressure waves result when the analyte expands and contracts as it absorbs chopped electromagnetic radiation.
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…the technique is known as photoacoustic, or optoacoustic, spectrometry. Photoacoustic spectrometers typically employ microphones or piezoelectric transducers as detectors. Pressure waves result when the analyte expands and contracts as it absorbs chopped electromagnetic radiation.
Read More