In-situ monitoring of ammonia gas using an optical fibre based approach

Abstract

An optical fibre sensor for the monitoring of low level atmospheric ammonia concentrations is presented. The measuring technique employed is based on a differential optical absorption approach, rather than a semiconductor based technique which is generally exploited within comparable commercially available products. The sensor described herein demonstrates vast improvements in terms of sensitivity, selectivity and lifespan over ammonia sensors currently available commercially. Extensive laboratory-based experimental tests demonstrate the sensor's ability to monitor concentrations as low as 1ppm without any notable cross-sensitivity issues to atmospheric gases such as nitrogen, oxygen and carbon dioxide. Furthermore, in-situ experimental tests within an agricultural cattle enclosure demonstrate sensor's suitability to environments where low concentration monitoring of ammonia over extended periods of time is necessary.