Hydrogen detection system for enhanced safety and quality assurance
Ir. Martijn C. de Kuijer
Electrical engineer, Sustainability Nerd, Columnist, Founder of Greenchoicess, Senior Construction Manager @ Pilot Construction Sdn Bhd
Researchers in Japan have developed an improved method for detecting hydrogen gas concentrations using a technique called Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS). This method allows for highly accurate measurements across a broad range, detecting hydrogen gas concentrations from as low as 0.01% up to 100%. This precision is essential because hydrogen is highly flammable and leaks can be dangerous.
By enhancing detection capabilities, this technology helps improve safety measures in environments where hydrogen is used or stored, such as in fuel cells, industrial applications, and hydrogen-powered vehicles. With better safety systems in place, the adoption of hydrogen as a clean energy source may become more widespread, as industries and consumers will feel more confident in its use.
Researchers in Japan have developed an improved method for detecting hydrogen gas concentrations using a technique called Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS). This method allows for highly accurate measurements across a broad range, detecting hydrogen gas concentrations from as low as 0.01% up to 100%. This precision is essential because hydrogen is highly flammable and leaks can be dangerous.
By enhancing detection capabilities, this technology helps improve safety measures in environments where hydrogen is used or stored, such as in fuel cells, industrial applications, and hydrogen-powered vehicles. With better safety systems in place, the adoption of hydrogen as a clean energy source may become more widespread, as industries and consumers will feel more confident in its use.
Scientists in Japan have developed an advanced technique for measuring hydrogen gas using Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS) combined with a high-pressure gas cell. This method addresses a key challenge in hydrogen detection: hydrogen’s weak absorption in the near-infrared (NIR) region, which makes it difficult to measure low concentrations accurately using traditional TDLAS techniques.
TDLAS works by passing a laser through a cell filled with the gas of interest, in this case, hydrogen. The laser’s wavelength is adjusted to target hydrogen's specific absorption line, filtering out environmental noise for more precise detection. However, hydrogen’s weak absorption in the NIR makes it difficult to detect in low concentrations compared to other gases.
To overcome this, the researchers used a Herriott multipass cell (HMPC) to extend the path length of the laser and experimented with adjusting the gas cell pressure. By increasing the pressure, they were able to broaden the absorption line width of hydrogen, allowing for more reliable detection. Through simulations, they identified the optimal pressure and laser modulation parameters to maximize sensitivity.
According to Tatsuo Shiina, who led the project, this innovation could significantly enhance hydrogen detection systems, particularly in safety and quality control applications. For instance, this method is well-suited for detecting leaks in hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, thus supporting the safer and more reliable use of hydrogen fuel.
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