Atmospheric Analyzer for Trace Carbon Cycle Gases

Although carbon dioxide remains the most cited greenhouse gas, other gases play important roles in climate change. Of these, carbon monoxide and methane are the most important. Comprehensive studies of global warming require these gases to be monitored continuously to unravel their contribution to Earth¿s changing climate. However, highly sensitive measurement equipment is required to measure the low atmospheric concentrations of these greenhouse gases with sufficient precision. This project will develop an inexpensive, compact, highly sensitive, in situ monitor for carbon monoxide and methane. The approach involves the combination of efficient, high-power, diode-pumped solid state lasers with the high-performance trace-gas-detection sensitivity provided by photoacoustic spectroscopy. A specially tailored device design will allow rugged and inexpensive instrumentation at targeted retail pricing below $10K. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The new sensor platform will be developed would be expected to provide ultra-high sensitivity detection for trace gases. Advanced compact sensors with high precision at moderate price points are strongly desired in environmental monitoring, modern manufacturing, and biomedical diagnostics/monitoring.