Infrared Hollow Waveguide Organic Solvent Analyzer

40958 November 19, 1996 Polestar Technologies, Inc. An instrument that can rapidly analyze soil samples in order to identify and quantify organic containments is needed for environmental monitoring and cleanup. This project will develop a portable infrared gas analyzer, based on a hollow waveguide structure, for analysis of organic solvent contaminants in soil. This analyzer will be capable of rapid on site analysis of soil samples, providing both identification and quantitative analysis of the presence of organic solvents, down to 10 ppb levels. In addition to a hollow waveguide absorption cell, the analyzer will incorporate recent advances in compact infrared spectrometer design, and multivariate calibration software. The proposed instrument will provide analysis of organic solvents in soil with substantially improved response time, together with lower cost compared to existing commercial instrumentation. Anticipated Results/Potential Commercial Applications as described by the awardee: The instrument should find numerous commercial applications in environmental remediation, chemical, petroleum, food and polymer industries.