The Gas Research Institute (GRI) estimates that over $200 million dollars of natural gas (methane) is lost each year due to fugitive leaks in compressor stations. In the gas distribution and transmission systems additional losses occur. The Department of Energy needs the capability to monitor natural gas in ambient conditions in order to identify the source of these losses. A portable imaging and analysis system would be an ideal solution to this problem. This project will transfer innovative technology, developed for the military to analyze targets and gases, by adapting a state-of-the-art imaging spectrometer to create one that is field portable, lightweight, rugged, and low cost. In Phase I, a laboratory model imaging spectrometer was fabricated, tested, and evaluated to verify that this technology can be applied to fugitive natural gas leaks. The tests were highly successful: leaks as small as .01 cu. ft./min. were identified and imaged. During Phase II, a portable hand held instrument will be designed and image-processing algorithms will be optimized in preparation for eventual fabrication in Phase III.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: A small, hand held, rugged, portable, and low cost imaging spectrometer that is optimized for the detection of green house gases could be used by the oil, gas, and chemical companies for monitoring potential leaks. This will reduce environmental impacts and will conserve valuable resources. The Federal government (EPA, DOE) is another potential customer.
