27

*STTR Project: Advanced Coal Research, New CO₂ Monitoring Devices-- Applied Nanotech, Inc., 3006 Longhorn Boulevard, Suite 107, Austin, TX 78758‑7631; 512‑339‑5020

Dr. Igor Pavlovsky, Principal Investigator, ipavlovsky@appliednanotech.net

Dr. Richard Fink, Business Official, dfink@appliednanotech.net

DOE Grant No. DE‑FG02‑08ER86339

Amount: $99,999

Research Institution

Rice University

Houston, TX

Scientists have proposed reducing greenhouse gas emissions by capturing combustion gases from power plants and injecting the carbon dioxide (CO₂) into geologic subsurface structures, where it would remain sequestered for geological periods of time. Demonstration projects are being funded by DOE to assess the storage capacity of sequestration reservoirs. Sophisticated monitoring tools are essential to track CO₂ in the geologic structures and assure safe retention. This project will develop a robust, reliable CO₂ monitoring device based on Quartz Enhanced Photoacoustic Spectroscopy (QEPAS). QEPAS – a simpler, more robust and compact system than conventional PAS – offers comparable detection sensitivity, better immunity to environmental acoustic noise, and very low drift, which allows data averaging over continuous concentration measurements. The robust, portable CO₂ sensor/monitor will measure small fluctuations of CO₂ in air with a resolution of ± 2.5 ppm in a background of 380 ppm. Phase I will demonstrate proof-of-concept by completing the design, assembly, and field testing of a working-model QEPAS CO₂ sensor. Phase I will culminate in a 90-day field trial of the device at a sequestration test site, including simulated releases of CO₂.

Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: Successful development of the CO₂ monitoring sensor will provide a tool for scientists to better understand the fluxes of CO₂ in the global carbon cycle. By facilitating data collection, the technology can assist the U.S. government in assessing impacts on ecosystems and climate change, and in developing countermeasures for areas that are adversely impacted.