Open Path Analyser and Leak Localisation for unconventional gas (OPALL)

Project title: Open Path Analyser and Leak Localisation for unconventional gas (OPALL)

OPALL project will develop and demonstrate a novel Open Path gas sensing platforms capable of continuous and unattended operation in harsh environment to monitor methane from unconventional gas extraction sites (Coal bed methane or Shale gas). It will be based on the use of Quantum Cascade Lasers integrated in an infrared absorption spectrometer previously developed for a security application. The systems will be tested and deployed in triangular arrangements at an unconventional gas extraction site, networked and coupled to data inversion algorithms in order to localise the source of possible fugitive emissions. Overall the project aims to address the high-level challenge of developing, safe, reliable and cost-effective technologies for the emerging shale gas market.