Portable Hyperspectral Imager for Phytoremediation Monitoring

70940 Spectral reflectance technologies are needed to perform streamlined phytoremediation monitoring at contaminated DOE sites. These technologies must be applicable for both in situ and remote monitoring, be compatible with other monitoring techniques, and be field-deployable within 2-3 years. This project will design and develop a novel Portable Hyperspectral Imager as a stress indicator in plants. Phase¿I will build a prototype device consisting of an imaging objective, a visible to near-infrared acousto-optic tunable filter, matching optics, and an acousto-optic-tunable-filter driver controlled through a portable computer. The prototype imager will be tested in laboratory experiments with plants exhibiting stress response to soil contamination. The Portable Hyperspectral Imager, capable of both remote and in situ operation, will be made available at the end of Phase II, with a field-deployable prototype to follow after one year. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The Portable Hyperspectral Imager should be a relatively inexpensive device that would be useful in environmental monitoring, forensic sciences, medicine, exploration of natural resources, and planetary research.