Real-time, close-coupled, multi-species gas analyzer

We propose the development of flexible gas sensor technology for real-time monitoring of multiple species in the flue gas of power plants. The proposed work leverages recent development of laser absorption-based sensors operating in the mid-infrared (Mid-IR) wavelength regime, which offers greater sensitivity and specificity than similar systems operating at other wavelengths. The concentration of multiple species at different locations across the power plant can be determined in real time with the added potential to feed data back into process control in a closed loop. Species of interest include but are not limited to carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitric oxide, nitrogen dioxide, ammonia, sulfur oxides and formaldehyde. Furthermore, with the flexibility of the modular design we will be able to provide those measurements for a wide variety of combustion technologies from coal and gas to chemical looping combustion and biofuels. The information collected by the sensors will allow process optimization which will lead to the reduction of costs associated with use of catalytic chemistry as well as a reduction of emissions from the plants. In Phase I, new fiber-optic devices will be developed, and the implementation of components optimized for measurements between the boiler and the air heater in a coal-fired power plant. A prototype system will be assembled and demonstrated with ability to monitor multiple species in real time at test facilities in conditions simulating real life power plants. The project will result in (1) new sensor technology specifically optimized to reduce costs and emissions at power plants and (2) general fiber-optic based tools that will be applicable to a wide range of gas sensing applications for harsh environments.