Field-Deployable Gas Analyzer for MMV Applications

As anthropogenic carbon dioxide levels continue to rise, the DOE has pioneered a Carbon Sequestration Program to capture and store carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in geological formations. One of the key components of this program involves the monitoring and verification of injected carbon dioxide, including the detection of leaks. An ideal analyzer would provide highly accurate carbon dioxide measurements, cover a broad area, and be capable of distinguishing between carbon dioxide leakage and ambient biological fluctuations. This project will utilize a proprietary technology to fabricate a gas analyzer that is capable of quantifying trace quantities of carbon dioxide, distinguishing between anthropogenic and biogenic gases, and monitoring methane leakage for mitigation of fugitive emissions. Phase I will demonstrate technical feasibility by fabricating a gas analyzer optimized for sequestration studies. The prototype will be tested in the laboratory using calibrated standards to demonstrate a rapid accurate response over the dynamic range of interest. Further testing will establish the instrument¿s long-term precision over a wide range of temperature, humidity, and mechanical stress, similar to those found at an actual field site. A gas sampling system will be designed with an external probe that is capable of sampling carbon dioxide from both ambient air and soil. Finally, the unit will be deployed at an ongoing DOE carbon sequestration field project (Frio, Texas) and at the Red Butte Canyon Research Natural Area (Salt Lake City, Utah). Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: A field-deployable gas analyzer for carbon dioxide isotopes and methane should have a significant impact on the refinement of carbon sequestration schemes. In addition to the DOE application, several potentially lucrative markets would benefit from this analytical device: environmental research laboratories, airborne pipeline leak monitoring, and medical breath diagnostics.