Development of a Quantum Cascade Laser-Based Detector for Ammonia and Nitric Acid

65811 The existing Multi-Filter Rotating Shadowband Radiometer (MFRSR) is widely used for atmospheric radiation monitoring by the DOE, the USDA, and several NASA programs. This project will fundamentally redesign the radiometer to extend the range of wavelengths it can measure, improve accuracy and utility, and make the instrument more suitable for ship-borne and aircraft-borne applications. Although some design changes can be borrowed (with modification) from other DOE-sponsored instruments, such as the Ultraviolet Multi-Filter Rotating Shadowband Radiometer and the prism/CCD-based Rotating Shadowband Spectroradiometer, entirely new fore-optic and signal processing methods will still be required. Phase I will complete the technical and economic specifications for the new instrument; demonstrate a new fore-optic to provide improved spectral response, angular response, and field durability; and test other key components to demonstrate that the new design meets the requirements for the target specification. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: A multi-hundred-unit worldwide demand should exist for these radiometers. In addition, ship-borne and airborne applications are increasing, and no well-suited instruments are available.