Frequency Comb-Based Remote Methane Observation Network

Under Development

University of Colorado More »

DOE ARPA-E

Damage Prevention and Mitigation -- Leak Detection

Ground-based laser sends invisible, eye-safe laser beams to retroreflectors. Reduced-cost, dual frequency comb spectrometer with frequency comb consisting of 105 evenly spaced, sharp, single frequency laser lines covering a broad wavelength range that includes the unique absorption signatures of natural gas constituents like methane. The team has shown that frequency comb spectrometers can measure methane and other gases at parts-per-billion concentration levels over kilometer-long path lengths.

Current, long-range sensing systems cannot detect methane with high sensitivity, accuracy, or stability. The frequency combs will be able to detect and distinguish methane, ethane, propane, and other gases without frequent calibration. When integrated into a complete methane detection system, the combs could lower the costs of methane sensing due to their ability to survey large areas or multiple gas fields simultaneously.

Increased Safety - When integrated into a complete methane detection system, the innovation aims to improve the accuracy of methane detection while decreasing the costs of systems.

Reduced Operations Cost -

https://arpa-e.energy.gov/?q=slick-sheet-project/frequency-combs-methane-detection
http://www.kunc.org/post/cu-engineers-using-lasers-track-gas-leaks