Active Standoff Detection of Low-Volatility Chemicals on Soils Using Infrared Reflection-Absorption Spectroscopy (NNSA, PNNL Scope #25399)
EMSL Project ID
25399
Abstract
The purpose of this research is to develop experimental and spectral analysis methodologies to detect low-volatility chemicals spilled onto bare soils using infrared reflection-absorption spectroscopy. In the EMSL Infrared Spectroscopy Laboratory we have recently been able to demonstrate that we can detect chemicals on soils on a laboratory-scale using a benchtop Fourier transform spectrometer. Data analysis was performed by Eigenvector Research, Inc. under a subcontract. This work was conducted with DOE/National Security funding (NA-22).Using new NA-22 funding (FY-07 through FY09) we would like to move this experiment from the laboratory to the field. The detection scenario will involve the use of an active, incoherent light source illuminating a patch of soil (or other surface type) on the order of one square meter that has been treated with a non-volatile chemical compound. A telescope mated to a Fourier transform spectrometer will be used to detect the mid-infrared light scattered from the surface. The illumination and detection distances will be on the order of tens of meters. This research is an extension of our current work in which statistical and least squares methods have been developed to extract useful spectroscopic information from laboratory infrared reflectance measurements of chemicals coated onto soils. The EMSL Infrared Spectroscopy Laboratory will continue to be our base of operations for this project wherein supporting laboratory data will be recorded using the benchtop FTIR spectrometers.
The proposed research will produce two main deliverables: (1) a successful demonstration of the detection of spectroscopic information that can be used to identify a specific chemical compound or at least a class of chemical compounds; and (2) an understanding of the relevant parameters for detecting chemicals coated on surfaces using infrared reflection spectroscopy at a distance: required photon flux, compensation for atmospheric variability, instrument calibration, optimal optical arrangement, etc.
Project Details
Start Date
2007-03-28
End Date
2009-09-30
Status
Closed
Released Data Link
Team
Principal Investigator
Team Members