Compact, dual-use, in-situ/remote coherent lidar system for real time measurement of aerosol emissions

ABSTRACT: We will develop a handheld/hand portable, dual-use optical system that combines our high-precision optical particle analyzer and coherent lidar system. This system will be capable of real-time measurement of both local and standoff particle emissions with compliance to EPA standards. The technology developed by this proposal would significantly advance next-generation particle measurement instruments and achieve high accuracy and remote sensing capability. During Phase II effort, we will develop and build a system prototype that will be ready for field operation assessment and data gathering for regulatory approval. BENEFIT: The technologies developed under this SBIR effort could potentially lead to a compact, low-cost, dual-use sensor or system to measure higher accuracy local and remote opacity and PM emissions under regulatory standards. In addition, for military, industrial, and commercial applications, the sensor and system platform could also become other derivative standoff instruments such as LDV, laser range finder, ceilometer, and wind meter. Extension of the technology could become commercially viable for other handheld or portable air pollution instrument including trace detection of chemical pollutants and military remote assessment for IED and bio-chemical threat.