Compact, Rugged, Quantum Cascade Laser-Based Field Sensor for Carbon Isotope Measurements

70127 The fate of the CO2 produced by fossil fuel burning depends on the ability of the oceans and the terrestrial biosphere to act as sinks for this increasing burden. The magnitudes of these sinks are still somewhat uncertain. Precise knowledge of the partitioning into these sinks has important implications for global climate change modeling and international energy policy making. One means of monitoring the partitioning of CO2 between the sinks is to measure ratios of its stable isotopes in the atmosphere. New instrumentation is required to make these measurements with good precision. This project will design, develop, and demonstrate a new high sensitivity optical absorption spectrometer to monitor trace gas species such as the major stable isotopes of carbon dioxide. The spectrometer will utilize newly emerging Quantum Cascade laser technology to enable access to fundamental absorption bands. Phase I will couple a quantum cascade laser with a high sensitivity detection system and demonstrate the required measurement precision for monitoring the major stable isotopes of CO2. A complete conceptual design for a compact, lightweight sensor that is particularly well suited for field monitoring also will be developed. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: A highly sensitive monitor for trace gases would fulfill a long-standing need in environmental and air quality monitoring. Other applications include combustion emissions analysis, fugitive emissions control, industrial process control, and contraband detection.