Emission monitoring

Many combustion and industrial processes produce gases that can be harmful to humans and the environment at certain concentrations. These include CO₂, CO, NO_x, SO₂, and formaldehyde. The type and quantity of gases emitted into the atmosphere must be monitored systematically and continuously. This is the only way to ensure compliance with the legally stipulated limits. In the event of natural disasters, terrorist attacks, or major industrial accidents, the rapid detection of toxic gases is of life-critical importance.

In addition to environmental and safety aspects, the economic aspect of emissions is also becoming increasingly important: The amount of each gas present is relevant for CO₂ certificate trading, the operation of gas storage facilities and carbon capture plants, and for the transport and storage of gases. In this context, qualitative and quantitative measurement of emissions forms the basis for billing processes.

For monitoring emissions from industrial processes, we use specialized sampling and analysis equipment that records gases and process parameters in real time.

Gas concentrations from just a few ppb, fast exchange times

Fraunhofer IPM develops and builds sensitive gas measurement systems for emission monitoring that measure gas concentrations ranging from a few ppb to the percent range. Thanks to sophisticated sampling solutions, our sensor systems achieve fast exchange times and largely artifact-free measurement results.

Laser analyzer: from exhaust gas analysis to gas measurement in melting furnaces

We have developed an extractive laser analyzer that takes measurement samples within a few milliseconds and analyzes the gas in the mid-infrared range. This technology is particularly well proven in automotive exhaust gas measurement technology. Another example of the laser analyzer's application is inline gas measurements at melting furnaces to optimize energy consumption during the melting process in electric steel mills. Both applications are examples of how fast and sensitive gas analysis works even in harsh environments.

Leakage measurements: Infrared spectroscopy for fast and selective gas detection

Modern leak detection technology uses various detection principles to precisely locate and quantify gas leaks. Electrochemical sensors react with high sensitivity to certain types of gas, while photoionization detectors (PID) can detect volatile organic compounds even in the lowest concentrations. Fraunhofer IPM relies on infrared spectroscopy for leak detection. IR spectroscopy enables the rapid and selective detection of specific gas molecules based on their characteristic absorption spectra. Laser-based photoacoustics in particular detects concentration ranges with high dynamics and achieves resolutions down to the ppb range.

Remote gas detection

For remote gas detection, we use laser-based optical methods and open path systems that can detect gas clouds over long distances. With infrared cameras, we visualize gas leaks in real time and can pinpoint leaks even in hard-to-reach areas. We use these technologies to monitor pipeline systems, industrial plants, and storage facilities.