POrtable methane Emissions Monitoring Spectrograph (POEMS)

Lead Research Organisation: University of Edinburgh
Department Name: Sch of Geosciences

Abstract

The POEMS project aims to develop a low cost, compact, and lightweight instrument capable of detecting fugitive methane emissions with sufficient precision, enabling a rapid and affordable increase in the extent and quality of methane concentration observations available. The project is split into two parts: 1) identifying precision requirements for different applications, assess the range of detection methods and instrument concepts, and identify the key technologies; and 2) develop a theoretical model and experimental design for a proof-of-concept instrument followed by construction and testing of a laboratory prototype to demonstrate and evaluate the technology. Based at the UK Astronomy Technology Centre (Edinburgh), which is one of the laboratories of the Science & Technology Facilities Council. The final stage will be a critical evaluation of performance, compared with existing CH4 detection methods, and a proposal for how
the technology can be adapted for use on a small satellite.

Publications

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Studentship Projects

Project Reference Relationship Related To Start End Student Name
EP/N509644/1 01/10/2016 30/09/2021
2221809 Studentship EP/N509644/1 01/03/2017 28/02/2021 Arthur Woodwark
 
Description Demonstration via simulation of a novel high spatial resolution satellite based methane instrument design optimised for detection of methane leaks from the oil and gas industry. Detection of over 90% of point source methane emissions by mass flux rate would be possible using this design.
Exploitation Route Looking to further develop the instrument through a post doctoral research phase and possible spin out company creation.
Sectors Energy,Environment,Government, Democracy and Justice