Video-rate spectral imaging of gas leaks in the longwave infrared

We have recently constructed and tested a gas cloud imager which demonstrates the rst-ever video-rate detection (15 frames/sec) of gas leaks using an uncooled LWIR detector array. Laboratory and outdoor measurements, taken in collaboration with BP Products North America Inc. and IES Inc., show detection sensitivities comparable to existing cooled systems for detecting hydrocarbon gases. Gases imaged for these experiments include methane, propane, propylene, ethane, ethylene, butane, and iso-butylene, but any gases with absorption features in the LWIR band could potentially be detected, such as sarin and other toxic gases. These results show that practical continuous monitoring of gas leaks with uncooled imaging sensors is now possible.