Airborne Sensor for Aerosol Precursors

Aerosol research remains a priority area and requires strong efforts to resolve the very complex processes that occur in the atmosphere. To understand aerosol formation and their implications on climate the study of precursors provides very valuable information. Ammonia is one of the most important precursor molecules and plays a major role in the chemistry of the atmosphere. High-performance sensors are required that can continuously monitor this molecule at low atmospheric concentrations. An inexpensive, compact, highly sensitive, in situ monitor for ammonia is proposed. Efficient, new generation quantum cascade lasers will be combined with the high-performance trace gas detection sensitivity provided by wavelength modulation spectroscopy. A specially tailored device design will allow rugged and inexpensive instrumentation at targeted retail pricing around $5K. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits: A new sensor platform will be developed that provides ultra-high sensitivity detection for trace gases. Advanced, compact, sensor technologies with high precision at low to moderate price points are strongly desired in environmental monitoring, modern manufacturing and biomedical diagnostics/monitoring