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Balloonborne Sensor for Measuring Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide

Award Information
Agency: Department of Energy
Branch: N/A
Contract: DE-FG02-11ER90036
Agency Tracking Number: 97299
Amount: $150,000.00
Phase: Phase I
Program: SBIR
Solicitation Topic Code: 29 b
Solicitation Number: DE-FOA-0000413
Timeline
Solicitation Year: 2011
Award Year: 2011
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): 2011-06-17
Award End Date (Contract End Date): 2012-05-16
Small Business Information
3 N. Chamisa Drive, Suite 1
Santa Fe, NM 87508-9463
United States
DUNS: 134161533
HUBZone Owned: No
Woman Owned: No
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: No
Principal Investigator
 Andrei Vakhtin
 Dr.
 (505) 466-3830
 vakhtin@vistaphotonics.com
Business Contact
 Jeffrey Pilgrim
Title: Dr.
Phone: (505) 466-3830
Email: jpilgrim@vistaphotonics.com
Research Institution
 Stub
Abstract

Measurement of atmospheric carbon dioxide on balloonsondes is a challenge to optical detection methods. High sensitivity, precision, and selectivity are required in a rugged, compact, lightweight package. Altitude-resolved atmospheric carbon dioxide detection on balloons is a critical component of the Department of Energy & apos;s greenhouse gas measurement strategy. Overall objective of the project is to develop a simple, rugged, lightweight laser-based spectrometer that can resolve carbon dioxide concentrations to better than 1 ppm in 30 seconds on a platform suitable for balloonsondes. In Phase I, the sensitivity and selectivity of the proposed sensor will be determined, as well as its capability to maintain high-precision detection under dynamically variable temperature, pressure and humidity conditions. The sensor will determine water vapor concentration for extracting the dry carbon dioxide mole fraction. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits: The proposed technology offers high-performance in an inexpensive, balloon-compatible, package. The approach will offer a compelling blend of price, performance and physical advantages for a variety of gas detection applications. Examples include atmospheric monitoring, environmental regulatory compliance, process gas analysis, and biomedical breath diagnostics

* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *

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