Tunable diode laser spectroscopy for process control and diagnostics in industrial systems

Near infrared tunable diode laser spectroscopy (TDLS) can provide robust and economical gas sensor solutions in a wide range of industrial and commercial environments. Our research has primarily been concerned with creating stand alone systems capable of establishing the concentration, pressure and temperature of methane, water vapour and other gases in harsh environments. This work describes two recent projects in which we have been involved: The first is for process monitoring in solid oxide fuel cells where the methane level in the steam reformer needs to be monitored to ensure safe operation. The second project is for gas diagnostics in aero engines in which water vapour is interrogated in the engine intake and/or exhaust to establish gas temperature and concentration.