Carbon Monoxide Sensor for Combustion Feedback Control

A sensor for carbon monoxide detection based on broadband absorption spectroscopy with a gas correlation filter is developed using a miniaturized light source and detector without the need of a mechanical chopper to alternate between two gas correlation cells into the optical path. Measurements were conducted using calibrated CO/N2 mixtures and sampled combustion products from a diffusion flame. The detection sensitivity was found to be 100 ppm for the measured range of 100 to 500 ppm. The sensor can be used to control individual burners in small scale combustion systems in order to maintain combustion efficiency and minimize pollutant emissions during their operation life cycle.