Objective
The aim of the project is the development of an IR LIDAR system able to detect small methane concentrations. The system is based on a correlation technique and utilizes as laser source an optical parametric oscillator pumped by a NV-YAG laser. The system is designed to be a small, compact and reliable device suitable to perform measurement in an urban environment from movable platform, such as small lorries, using topographic targets as retroreflectors. Sensitivity goal is a minimum detectable concentration of about 50 ppm*m, which corresponds to the natural background concentration integrated over a double pass path of about 30 metres, i. e. at working distance from topographic target of 15 metres. The system has been designed to operate on ranges from 5 to 20 metres.
In case of successful results, it will be sought a cooperation with an electronic firm, which already operates in the laser field.
Field tests have been carried out during routine leak detection activity in the city of Milan and also on simulated leaks for comparison with conventional instrumentation.
Sensitivity has been measured of the order of 150 ppm* m, corresponding to a uniform concentration of 5 ppm distributed on a double pass path of 30 metre (i. e. at a distance from topographic target of 15 metre).
To improve this performance up to the needed one it will be necessary a review of the detector preamplifier design in order to reduce noise and a further optimization of the receiving optics
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Field experience has shouwn the importance of a careful design of the moveable laboratory on the truck to make easier the use of the system in the urban environment, with problems arising from car traffic and parking.
Further development is necessary to obtain a fully operative system.
The detection method is based on the measurement of the atmospheric absorption of a laser beam by the gas to be detected; this technique is called Differential Absorption LIDAR (DIAL) and is used because it allows to cancel systematic errors due to target reflectivity and atmospheric scattering.
Conventional DIAL techniques may lead to important errors when used to make measurements on moving platforms, since two laser shots are required; infact, time varying parameters, such as topographical target reflectance, may noticeably change during the time elapsed between the two shots, since the pulse rate is typically not grater than 10 Hz.
The gas correlation method makes it possible to self-normalize the return signal obtained from a single laser pulse, thus leaving any time dependent environmental effect. Main disadvantages are a lower sensitivity and a greater effect of the measurement of interfering molecules.
Programme(s)
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Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Topic(s)
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Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Call for proposal
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Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Funding Scheme
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Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Coordinator
20122 Milano
Italy
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.