Simultaneous use of two open-path FTIR spectrometers for data collection in complex source environments

Robert J. Kricks; Douglas E. Pescatore; Stephen H. Perry; Amy E. DuBois

doi:10.1117/12.210795

31 May 1995 Simultaneous use of two open-path FTIR spectrometers for data collection in complex source environments

Robert J. Kricks, Douglas E. Pescatore, Stephen H. Perry, Amy E. DuBois

Proceedings Volume 2365, Optical Sensing for Environmental and Process Monitoring; (1995) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.210795
Event: Optical Sensing for Environmental and Process Monitoring, 1994, McLean, VA, United States

Abstract

This paper describes a technique involving the use of two open-path Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometers to isolate emissions in complex source environments such as oil refineries or chemical manufacturing facilities. Typically, open-path FTIR monitoring involves collection or generation of an upwind (background) spectrum (I₀) prior to the commencement of measurement activities, and the use of that spectrum to create absorbances for subsequent downwind (sample) spectra (I₀) values. In situations where the upwind single beam spectrum is relatively clean or unchanging in time with respect to target compounds and interferences, this method of handling I₀ is generally satisfactory. However, in complex source environments where either I₀ or I values can change rapidly, the simultaneous use of two open- path units can yield substantial improvements, especially with respect to target compound detection limits. Although the use of two FTIR units can greatly improve the problem of background variation for target compounds as well as for background atmospheric components and interferences, it introduces a number of other problems resulting in difficulties in the analysis of the resultant absorbance spectra. These problems are discussed, and some recently collected field data showing the application of this technique is presented.

Citation Download Citation

Robert J. Kricks, Douglas E. Pescatore, Stephen H. Perry, and Amy E. DuBois "Simultaneous use of two open-path FTIR spectrometers for data collection in complex source environments", Proc. SPIE 2365, Optical Sensing for Environmental and Process Monitoring, (31 May 1995); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.210795

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