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Precise Alcohol Detection for Greater Safety

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Product Stories9 Jul 2025
Drunk driving remains a leading cause of accidents worldwide. Infrared sources from Axetris enable precise, reliable detection systems for both law enforcement checks and in-vehicle applications—helping to improve road safety.

The Dark Side of Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol is deeply embedded in many cultures and is consumed on countless occasions. Yet, excessive consumption leads to millions of deaths each year and contributes to the development of more than 200 diseases. While moderate drinking does not generally pose a direct danger, intoxication and irresponsible alcohol use cause significant harm, especially on the roads. 

Legally Defensible Measurement Technology for Law Enforcement

Police-administered alcohol testing has become standard practice worldwide. However, most breath alcohol analyzers are based on electrochemical cells, which are prone to errors and suffer performance degradation over time. As a result, labor-intensive blood tests are often required to confirm results.

Non-Dispersive Infrared (NDIR) Spectroscopy offers a solution: 

  • Low maintenance: Minimal susceptibility to drift. 
  • Durable: No age-related performance loss. 
  • Precise: High measurement accuracy. 

NDIR technology has proven effective in stationary devices and is increasingly being used in portable handheld instruments for mobile enforcement. 

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Ignition Interlocks: Intelligent Accident Prevention

Despite frequent police checks, not every instance of drunk driving can be prevented. Alcohol ignition interlocks, which prevent vehicles from starting if alcohol is detected, typically rely on electrochemical cells. However, their frequent calibration requirements generate significant costs.

New Approaches are Utilizing Infrared Spectroscopy:

  • Integrated solutions: Sensors built into the steering wheel or A-pillar continuously analyze breath samples.
  • User-friendly: Fingerprint sensors detect alcohol in the blood vessels of the fingers.
  • Enhanced safety: Systems can detect alcohol consumption even while driving.

These technologies are seen as groundbreaking—not only for professional drivers but also for widespread adoption in the consumer market.

Long-Term Stable Measurement Systems for Diverse Applications

Infrared spectroscopy isn’t just ideal for use in traffic safety. It’s also well-suited for access control in sensitive areas such as high-security industrial facilities or public events. High-quality infrared sources play a critical role in ensuring the reliability of these measurement systems.

With innovative technologies from Axetris, alcohol detection is being redefined. Whether it’s for accident prevention, secure access control, or public safety, infrared spectroscopy offers precision and reliability for a safer environment.