Time-domain near-infrared spectroscopy using a wavelength-tunable narrow-linewidth source by spectral compression of ultrashort soliton pulses.

Time-domain absorption spectroscopy was demonstrated using a wideband, rapid wavelength-tunable, narrow-linewidth source based on an Er-doped ultrashort pulse fiber laser system. The spectrum of the Raman-shifted ultrashort soliton pulse was compressed using a comb-profile dispersion increasing fiber. Rapid wavelength sweeping was demonstrated using an electro-optical intensity modulator. The absorption spectrum of CH(2)Cl(2) liquid at 1625-1780 nm was observed in a 10 μs time-domain measurement.