Advanced Coal Research, New CO2 Monitoring Devices

Scientists have proposed reducing greenhouse gas emissions by capturing combustion gases from power plants and injecting the carbon dioxide into geologic subsurface structures, where it would remain sequestered for geological periods of time. Demonstration projects are being funded by DOE to assess the storage capacity of sequestration reservoirs. Sophisticated monitoring tools are essential to track CO2 in the geologic structures and assure safe retention. This project will develop a robust, reliable CO2 monitoring device based on Quartz Enhanced Photoacoustic Spectroscopy ,QEPAS,. QEPAS a simpler, more robust and compact system than conventional PAS offers comparable detection sensitivity, better immunity to environmental acoustic noise, and very low drift, which allows data averaging over continuous concentration measurements. The robust, portable CO2 sensor/monitor will measure small fluctuations of CO2 in air with a resolution of plus or minus 2.5 ppm in a background of 380 ppm. Phase I will demonstrate proof-of-concept by completing the design, assembly, and field testing of a working-model QEPAS CO2 sensor. Phase I will culminate in a 90-day field trial of the device at a sequestration test site, including simulated releases of CO2. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: Successful development of the CO2 monitoring sensor will provide a tool for scientists to better understand the fluxes of CO2 in the global carbon cycle. By facilitating data collection, the technology can assist the U.S. government in assessing impacts on ecosystems and climate change, and in developing countermeasures for areas that are adversely impacted