Photoacoustic device and process for multi-gas sensing

Details Photoacoustic device and process for multi-gas sensing Photoacoustic device and process for multi-gas sensing

1996-12-31

1999-08-03

Rosenberger, Richard A.

Optics: measuring and testing

For light transmission or absorption

Of fluent material

356246, 356432, 356440, G01N 2161, G01N 2103

Patent

active

059332450

ABSTRACT:
A photoacoustic gas sensing system includes either separate lasers or an arrangement of emitters and filters, to provide infrared energy within at least two distinguishable frequency bandwidths, modulated at two or more associated and different modulating frequencies. The modulated energy signals illuminate a gas cell containing a mixture of gases that experience temperature and pressure fluctuations responsive to the radiant energy. An amplified microphone signal, produced responsive to the pressure fluctuations, is detected at the different modulation frequencies to provide two or more detector signals in digital form. These signals are processed in combination with predetermined constants derived by calibrating the system, to generate two or more concentration values corresponding to the individual gases involved. The system can utilize a photoacoustic cell with walls formed entirely of a polymer that is both gas-permeable and transparent to the infrared radiation. If desired, a temperature sensor and a pressure sensor near the cell provide respective signals based on ambient temperature and ambient pressure. These ambient condition signals are used to provide concentration measurements corrected for changes in ambient temperature and pressure, including pressure differences due to differences in elevation. Temperature and light sensors can be included to reduce temperature-dependent and time-dependent variations in sensor calibration.

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