Purpose:

Measurement of metals in flue gas emissions are typically performed using a sampling train to collect an integrated sample (e.g., EPA SW-846 Method 0060). This project will demonstrate an Aerosol Beam-Focused Laser-Induced Plasma Spectroscopy (ABF-LIPS) technique that will allow continuous emission monitoring (CEM) of various metals (e.g., chromium, nickel, lead, mercury, vanadium, sulfur, sodium, iron, and calcium).

Description:

The ABF-LIPS technique has the potential to evolve into a robust CEM for multi-metal measurement. A CEM system built on this technique is physically small (i.e., about the size of a carry-on luggage) and rugged, making it very suitable for field operations. In ABF-LIPS, a pulsed laser beam is tightly focused onto an aerosol sample to ignite plasma and excite all of the atoms. When the atoms return from the plasma-excited state to the ground state, they release light that can identify the metals present and their amount. The instrument will be field-tested at both a Navy and an Army facility that produce metal emissions.

Benefits:

Continuous emission measurement of metals provides critical data needed for real-time engineering control, process optimization, on-site decision-making, and CEM. ABF-LIPS can be used in metal-laden particulate matter releases during welding and plating to protect personnel health and safeguard against unnecessary exposure to toxic metals. The field portability of this instrument also makes it suitable for confined environments, such as an indoor firing range or a metals-plating shop. The expected cost savings for the Department of Defense is $1 million per year. (Anticipated Project Completion - 2005)

Contact:

Mr. Bryan Harre
Naval Facilities Engineering Service Center
1100 23rd Avenue
Port Hueneme, CA 93043
Telephone: (805) 982-1795
Fax: (805) 982-4304
E-mail: harrebl@nfesc.navy.mil