Cone Pentrometer Deployable Solid Phase Optical Chemical Sensor for Subsurface Detection of Halohydrocarbons

40384 November 18, 1996 POC Halogenated hydrocarbons (halohydrocarbons) represent one of the most potent groups of toxic compounds spread across contaminated sites. This project will develop a group-specific active optical chemical sensor for halohydrocarbons (including trichloroethylene, dichloroethylene, perchloroethylene, and l, l, l-trichloroethane) that can be interfaced with a cone penetrometer for subsurface applications. Other active optical halohydrocarbon sensors, which rely on liquid-phase chemical reactions of target compounds with pyridine-based indicator solutions, are unsuitable for use in cone penetrometers. In this approach, no liquid chemical substances will be used in the final sensor design, enabling simple fiber optic-based downhole deployment. The use of solid phase detection chemistry will also minimize or eliminate the possibility of contamination of the subsurface environment with spills of toxic indicator solutions. Phase I will evaluate the sensing components to construct a solid phase sensor, and test a working model of the sensor under laboratory and simulated subsurface conditions. Anticipated Results/Potential Commercial Applications as described by the awardee: The proposed solid state sensor, interfaced with a cone penetrometer, should offer an efficient and cost-effective means for detecting halohydrocarbons in hazardous waste sites. The resulting increases in monitoring speed and cost efficiency should translate directly into national benefits including reduced pollutant contamination and less threat to human health.