Membrane-free In-situ Underwater Gas Analyzer Using Laser Spectroscopy in a Compact Hollow Fiber Cell

Lead PI: Jason Kriesel, Opto-Knowledge Systems, Inc
Start Year: 2018 | Duration: 3 years
Partners: Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, University of Washington-NOAA Joint Institute for Study of the Atmosphere and Oceans, Oregon State University-NOAA

The overall goal of the project is the production and demonstration of a new gas sensor for insitu,
real-time trace gas concentration and isotope measurements at depth. The sensor utilizes an
innovative membrane-free water sampler with a novel laser spectroscopy gas analyzer. A
prototype will be configured for real-time methane concentration and isotope analysis at depths
to 3000 m. The prototype will address scientific questions related to the study of methane seeps
and hydrothermal vents. The project is structured to steadily raise the Technology Readiness
Level (TRL) of the sensor concept, determining effective means to overcome and address
associated challenges with producing precise and accurate information in the field. The end
result will be a specific tool for fast update rate methane measurements, as well as a proven
general sensor platform, which can be reconfigured and used for studies of other gas species.