PROJECT TITLE: Sensor for SOx Species by Ultra-Sensitive IR Quantum Cascade Laser Absorption
TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) proposes to develop a compact, portable, ultrasensitive SO2/SO3 sensor system based on quantum cascade laser absorption in the 7 to 9 µm spectral region. The sensor will have applications in laboratory and combustor test stand measurements related to the development of advanced gas turbine engines for subsonic jet aircraft, and specifically addresses the need to characterize proportionation and atmospheric environmental impacts of oxidized fuel-bound sulfur in the engine exhaust. The use of novel quantum cascade laser technology in the sensor will enable the first high-sensitivity detection of SOx species at mid-IR wavelengths with a near-room temperature, single-mode laser. The proposed Phase I effort will demonstrate the feasibility and sensitivity of detection of SO2 by this method, and will design a prototype instrument for delivery to NASA in Phase II.
POTENTIAL COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS
The SOx sensor has commercial potential in the aerospace, chemical, petrochemical, and environmental monitoring industries. The sensor can be used as a fenceline contamination or pollution monitor at airports, petrochemical processing plants, or combustion-based power generation facilities.
NAME AND ADDRESS OF PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR
W. Terry Rawlins Physical Sciences Inc. 20 New England Business Center Andover , MA 01810 - 1077
NAME AND ADDRESS OF OFFEROR
Physical Sciences Inc. 20 New England Business Center Andover , MA 01810 - 1077