Diode laser sensor for methane detection on an unmanned aerial vehicle

Ambient methane makes a substantial contribution to the greenhouse gas effect. Rapid, widespread accurate measurements of ambient methane concentration are needed to include in environmental models. D.O.E. is particularly interested in methane measurements in the Arctic where rapid climatic change is occurring. Southwest Sciences proposes to develop a compact, lightweight diode laser sensor for methane that can be flown on a small unmanned aerial vehicle. This sensor will operate in the 3300 nm region using a high sensitivity optical absorption technique. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits: The proposed sensor will be used for accurate measurements of ambient methane. Aside from environmental measurements, this technology will be useful for natural gas leak detection, both air and ground based. The aerial platform developed could also be applied for detection of other gases by using a different laser.