Passive coherent dual-comb spectroscopy based on optical-optical modulation with free running lasers

Dual-comb spectroscopy is a powerful spectroscopic tool with ultrahigh-resolution, high-sensitivity properties, which opens up opportunities for the parallel detection of multi-species molecules. However, in its conventional form, highly stable laser combs with sophisticated control systems are required to perform dual-comb spectroscopy. Here, a passive mutually coherent dual-comb spectroscopy system via an optical-optical modulation method is addressed, where all fast phase-locking electronics are retired. Without post computer-based phase-correction, a high degree of mutual coherence between the two combs with a relative comb-tooth linewidth of 10 mHz is achieved, corresponding to a coherent time of 100 s. To demonstrate the performance and versatility of the system, the dual comb spectrometer is applied to record the mode-resolved single molecular spectra as well as parallel detected spectra of mixed gases including CO₂, CO and C₂H₂ that well agree with the established spectral parameters. Our technique exhibits flexible wavelength tuning capability in the near-infrared region and can be potentially extended to the mid-infrared region for more applications.