Block Engineering, a division of Spectra Optics, is a high technology U.S. based business that has served industrial and military customers worldwide since it was founded in 1956.

Block is a recognized leader in the Fourier infrared spectrometer systems (FTIR) market with many significant contributions to state-of-the-art sensing equipment.

Block instruments are used primarily for remote, standoff detection of chemical vapors to distances of 5-10km. Block's ultra-sensitive Model 550 (just announced) may also have potential for biological particle detection at a distance.

Currently, Block FTIR spectrometers are used in airborne (Pods, UAV's, rotary and fixed wing aircraft), land based, hand held, and ground vehicle applications.

Please click on any of the buttons to the left in order to explore the Block Engineering web site.

Block MEMS Receives Micro/Nano Technology DARPA Award

Mass High Tech article on Block: Thinking "small" is delivering big results

Block Engineering Names Dr. Petros Kotidis Chief Executive Officer

Block MEMS Receives $4.5 Million Development Contract for MEMS gas sensor

Block Engineering announces new PORTHOS^TM (PORTable Hazard Observation System) to detect and identify dangerous chemical vapors at long distance.