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Published on: April 25, 2019
Chirped laser dispersion spectroscopy for remote open-path trace-gas sensing.
Michal Nikodem1, Gerard Wysocki
1Electrical Engineering Department, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA.
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)
|February 28, 2013
Summary
We developed a novel remote sensor for detecting nitrous oxide (N2O) using chirped laser dispersion spectroscopy. This instrument achieves high sensitivity, reaching single parts-per-billion by volume detection limits.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Analytical Chemistry
- Spectroscopy
Background:
- Nitrous oxide (N2O) is a significant greenhouse gas.
- Accurate monitoring of N2O concentrations is crucial for environmental studies.
- Existing trace-gas detection methods may have limitations in remote, open-path applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a prototype instrument for remote, open-path detection of nitrous oxide.
- To demonstrate the efficacy of chirped laser dispersion spectroscopy (CLaDS) for N2O measurement.
- To evaluate the performance and stability of the developed sensor.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a 4.53 μm quantum cascade laser.
- Employed the chirped laser dispersion spectroscopy (CLaDS) technique.
- Conducted instrument characterization and field deployment tests.
Main Results:
- Achieved a detection limit down to the single parts-per-billion by volume (ppbv) level for N2O.
- Demonstrated excellent stability and robustness of the prototype sensor.
- Presented the first known demonstration of open-path laser-based trace-gas detection using molecular dispersion measurements.
Conclusions:
- The CLaDS technique is effective for sensitive trace-gas detection in a remote, open-path configuration.
- The prototype instrument shows promise for accurate N2O monitoring.
- Dispersion sensing offers advantages for environmental monitoring applications.
