Quantitative spectral data acquisition and analysis with modular smartphone assemblies

Abstract

A low-cost cell phone spectrometer using the image sensor in the cell phone camera is developed and analyzed. The spectrometer design is optimized for sensitivity and spectral resolution. Calibration techniques are developed to enable robust data collection across different phone models with minimal equipment. Novel algorithms for robust calibration with minimal equipment are described and implemented. The spectrometer is then characterized for use in colorimetric systems. Finally, the cell phone spectrometer is used in a forensic application for dating blood spots based on time-dependent oxidation-induced spectral changes.