A Non-Source Optical Fiber Sensor for Multi-Point Methane Detection.

Area of Science:

• Sensor Technology
• Environmental Monitoring
• Mining Safety

Background:

• Accurate, real-time gas concentration measurement is crucial for preventing coal mining disasters.
• Existing methods may lack the precision or multi-point capabilities required for comprehensive mine monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an accurate, non-source optical fiber sensor for multi-point methane detection in mine environments.
• To enable simultaneous, long-range monitoring of methane gas at various locations within a mine.

Main Methods:

• A 16-channel fiber splitter and multi-channel time-sharing acquisition module were integrated into the sensor.
• An all-optical connection between sensors and the monitoring host was established for non-source, long-range detection.
• Performance was evaluated through detection range, response time, and stability experiments.

Main Results:

• The sensor achieved an average detection error of approximately 1.84% across the full range.
• Response time was consistently under 10 seconds, with a minimum detection limit of 58.42 ppm.
• Methane concentration measurements remained consistent over extended periods at distances up to 5 km.

Conclusions:

• The developed non-source optical fiber sensor demonstrates significant potential for effective multi-point online methane gas detection in mine environments.
• This technology can enhance safety by providing reliable, real-time monitoring of hazardous gas levels.
• The sensor's long-range and stable performance make it suitable for diverse mine conditions.