Table 2.
Performance of LAS techniques as compared to other analytical methods in the field of breath gas analysis, based on included references. Real-time—online sampling and breath-cycle resolved detection, VOCs—volatile organic compounds
| Technique | Sensitivity | Selectivity/precision | Real time | Multispecies | Complexity/size/cost | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Laser based | ||||||
| TDLAS and MPC | Intermediate | High | Yes | 1–3 | Low to intermediate | Light molecules |
| CEAS | High | Yes | 1–3 | Intermediate | ||
| PAS | High | No | 1–3 | Intermediate | ||
| OFCS | Intermediate | Not yet | Yes | High | Light mol. and VOCs | |
| MS | ||||||
| GC-MS | High | Intermediate | No | Yes | High | VOCs, calibration |
| PTR-MS SIFT-MS |
High | Intermediate | Yes | Yes | High | VOCs, calibration |
| Sensor arrays | Intermediate | Poor | No | – | Low | Calibration |