An open path H2O/CO2 gas analyzer for eddy correlation systems: theory and design

A fast response, open path tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy H2O/CO2 gas analyzer suitable for eddy correlation concentration measurements in near surface turbulent environments is presented. The turbulent temperature characteristics, analysis theory, analysis methods, design structure and specifications of this dual laser analyzer are described. A fiber connected optical head with folded optical path is used to extend the resolution to ppb levels for H2O at 1.3964 microm and CO2 at 2.014 microm. The Fourier (discrete cosine) transform absorbance ratio analysis methods are outlined along with the modifications for temperature and pressure measurements in turbulent flows. Synthesis of the reference absorbance function using measured temperature, pressure and the Hitran parameters is extended with incorporation of the Hitran parameters n, gamma temperature exponent and E'', lower state energy. Additionally, the mole fraction equation developed for this Hitran model is presented and an absolute calibration technique is outlined along with methods of calibration retention. Simulation results on mole fraction estimations and errors are presented for synthetic temperature and laser noise processes and are used to verify the specifications.