Transportable Dual-Band Raman System for Fuel Analysis
Fuel analysis on-the-go is achieved by BaySpec's newly developed multi-wavelength, auto-aligned Agility™ Raman system
Raman spectroscopy is a powerful technique for chemical identification based upon the molecular and crystal lattice bond vibrations. This non-destructive analysis produces chemically specific spectra and enables accurate identification and quantification. In the past, Raman technology was very difficult to be applied for fuel analysis, because most fuels, either derived from petroleum or plant-based materials, are highly fluorescent. Fluorescence interference (thousands of times stronger than Raman scattering) is the biggest obstacle which completely masks or significantly reduces the quality of the Raman spectra.
Figure 1: (a) BaySpec’s Agility⢠Raman Analyzer; (b) vial holder; and (c) BaySpec’s Agility20/20 is an open software package that acquires and analyzes spectra, calibrates wavelength, verifies and identifies substances, and manages user-built or third-party spectral libraries. (Diesel spectra shown.)
Unlike other optical measurements, the fluorescence background and the color of the sample does not affect the quality of the 1064 nm Raman measurement. Now, liquid fuel measurement and analysis are straight forward tasks done in a few seconds, without needing direct contact, or any complicated preparation of the sample. In addition, dispersive 1064 nm systems reduce the stringent sampling conditions necessary at shorter wavelengths as they allow measurements through colored glass and plastic containers.
With advances in lasers, sensitive detectors, and highly efficient transmission VPG® gratings, the Agility dramatically improves ease of operation, response time, and measurement accuracy. High sensitivity and stability is achieved through optimized detector cooling and factory calibration. The compact transportable instrument measures 310 mm × 380 mm × 170 mm and weighs less than 14 lb (6 kg).
Compared to traditional 1064 nm FT-Raman technology, measurements on the Agility are non-destructive, require minimal sample preparation and results are obtain in seconds. The optical design features no moving parts and a ruggedized injection molded case is designed to withstand harsh environments with extreme temperature and humidity ranges. The device is MIL-STD-810 qualified. The laser is fully enclosed to guarantee maximum eye safety.
An on-board computer runs easy-to-use menu-driven software. The analysis is done automatically without requiring specialized training by the operator. Security is enhanced through 21 CRF Part 11 compliance with multiple levels of password protection.
Instruments are capable of identifying fuel types, quantifying fuel compositions, detecting contaminations, and calculating fuel parameters such as melting point, cloud point, and cetane/octane number.
With Agility's auto-aligned sampling accessories, users can take measurements either in their original container using a fiber optic probe, or using vial holders placed inside the instrument's sampling chamber. The minimal sampling volume is as small as 0.01 mL.
A transportable fuel analyzer is now possible for "real-world" field testing and analysis.
BaySpec, Inc.
1101 McKay Drive, San Jose, CA 95131
tel. +1 (408) 512-5928
Email: info@bayspec.com; Website: www.bayspec.com
Poster Presentation - RISE imaging of various phases of SiC in sintered silicon-carbide ceramics
November 12th 2024In this poster presentation applications manager Ute Schmidt discusses the use of correlative Raman-SEM (RISE Microscopy) imaging for analyzing silicon-carbide (SiC) ceramics. The main focus of the work is investigating the distribution of sub-micron structured polytypes of SiC grains on and below the surface.
FT-IR gas analysis of coal-to-ethylene glycol process
October 31st 2024Coal-to-ethylene glycol is the process by which ethylene glycol is synthesized from coal instead of traditional methods using petroleum as the raw material. This study demonstrates that Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) can be a reliable alternative to simultaneously measure methyl nitrite and other process gases (such as CO and NO) using a single ABB analyzer.
Sensi+, fast, accurate and reliable monitoring of H₂S, H₂O and CO₂ in natural gas
October 31st 2024Sensi+ is a compact natural gas contaminants analyzer based on a unique tunable diode laser (TDL) technology called Off-Axis Integrated Cavity Output Spectroscopy (OA-ICOS™). The technology accurately, reliably, and simultaneously measures corrosive substances such as hydrogen sulfide, carbon dioxide and water in real-time within complex and time-varying natural gas streams. Mitigating the risks and effects of contaminants in natural gas can be challenging for pipeline operators, process industries, and natural gas utilities. These companies must manage various technologies and devices to achieve a comprehensive analysis, which can be complex, prone to failure, and costly. ABB's revolutionary Sensi+™ analyzer answers these issues.
Fiber-based FT-NIR analyzer configuration for crude oil analysis
October 31st 2024This paper encompasses the FT-NIR optical configuration. The optical configuration depends on the ideal spectral range for gathering spectroscopic information about crude properties (i.e., combination vs overtone region), as well as careful selection of optical hardware to minimize residual absorption and light loss, which could be detrimental.