High Accuracy Carbon Dioxide Analyzer

70173 Studies of global warming require the monitoring and quantification of the global carbon cycle on large spatial scales so that scientists can generate more reliable models of climate change. Significantly increased accuracy and precision of CO2 measurements are needed. This project will develop a compact, rugged, inexpensive instrument that uses telecommunications diode lasers to accurately and precisely measure CO2 concentrations in the atmosphere. The instrument, based on a novel technology called Off-Axis Integrated Cavity Output Spectroscopy, will provide CO2 concentration measurements in the field with a precision and an intrinsic absolute accuracy better than 1 part in 3000 in less than 30 seconds. It will consume less than 20 cubic centimeters of air per measurement and require no calibration or reference gases. In Phase I, the instrument will be designed and built, and measurements on NIST-traceable standard gas mixtures will be performed. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The instrument platform should have application to atmospheric studies, medical diagnostics to detect common diseases, and for monitoring and control of several industrial processes.