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New Optical Coupling of Infrared Analyzers to Industrial Processes--Advanced Fuel Research, Inc., 87 Church St., P.O. Box 380379, East Hartford, CT 06108-3742; 860-528-9806
Mr. James R. Markham, Principal Investigator
Dr. Michael A. Serio, Business Official
DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-99ER82729
Amount: $99,966
Energy-intensive and waste-intensive industries in the U.S. could become more efficient with improved measurement and control technology. However, the harsh environments in these industries have made it difficult to take advantage of advanced optical sensors for in-process use. In addition, it is well known that although monitoring the infrared electromagnetic spectrum can provide important information on process streams, much of this information can not be relayed to the new sensors by standard fiber optics. This project will develop advanced optical coupling technology that does relay the important information while still being rugged, flexible, and easy to install. In Phase I, the advanced optical coupling technology will be tested in laboratory experiments that simulate harsh industrial processes. Discussions will be conducted with industry representatives to identify target field-test locations for in-process measurements in Phase II.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The improved in-process sensors should be particularly applicable to the large combustion market. The industrial boiler market itself exceeds 50,000 installed units in the U.S., and the process heating market has an additional 25,000 installed units.