Field Portable Fluorescence Sensor for Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons

In this research project, Southwest Sciences, Inc., proposes to design, build, and test a real-time, field-portable instrument for the detection of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The technology uses time- and wavelength-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy (T&WFS) to identify PAHs at sub-parts-per-billion concentrations in water. The instrument incorporates an innovative approach to fluorescence lifetime detection that is based on radio frequency electronics and is considerably less expensive than other approaches to T&WFS. The Phase II prototype will be compact, cost effective, and reliable. It will use an ultraviolet diode laser for excitation of fluorescence and fiber optics to deliver and collect light at the sampling site. The entire instrument, including the diode laser optics, detector, electronics, and computer, will fit into a space the size of a briefcase and will be capable of running on batteries. Potential customers include hazardous waste sites and industrial treatment facilities, the Department of Energy (for waste monitoring and remediation), and municipal waste disposal sites. Southwest Science?s portable onsite assessment instrument offers the advantages of providing PAH contamination profiles and distributions and real-time monitoring during remediation efforts.