Fox, Curtis W. | Engineering Papers

NASA NTRS1991

Gaseous oxygen detection using laser diodes

Transitions in the R-branch of the O2 A-band have been observed by modulating IR laser diode temperatures; on the basis of these transitions, O2 concentrations as low as 750 ppm can be determined. The transmission measurement's achievable precision correlates with an O2 concentration uncertainty of only 0.5 percent. Both the concentration and the static temperature of the gas are thereby determinable. Improved optics are being designed to improve these performance figures.

Fox, Curtis W.↗

NASA NTRS1990

Detection of gaseous oxygen using temperature tuned laser diodes

The development of an optical differential absorption technique using laser diodes is discussed. The technique is being developed as a solution to overcome the difficulties imposed by conventional liquid rocket propulsion system leak detection such as damage to the engine, cumbersome equipment, and excessive amounts of time. The detection of O2 at atmospheric pressure and temperature using laser diodes is demonstrated. Also, it is shown that, by temperature tuning the laser diode, the wavelength was shifted to a level where the oxygen absorption peaks are found. The levels of transmission determined via experimental means and those calculated from spectral data are found to be in close agreement.

Fox, Curtis W.↗