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This project has developed, tested, and deployed a scanning eye-safe diode laser-based Differential Absorption Lidar (DIAL; LIDAR = Laser Induced Differential Absorption Radar). This instrument was designed to perform near-surface mapping of CO2 number densities for MVA to determine possible CO2leakage to the atmosphere at geologic carbon storage sites. Horizontal testing of the CO2 DIAL instrument was conducted to determine its performance at the Zero Emission Research Technology (ZERT) field site during a controlled release experiment, and at the Kevin Dome site in north-central Montana, where the Big Sky Carbon Sequestration Partnership will be conducting a larger-scale carbon storage demonstration project. At both sites, the DIAL instrument measured CO2 concentrations that compared favorably to those measured by commercial CO2 instrumentation.
This project focuses on monitoring CO2 by detecting CO2 that has potentially escaped confinement. More sensitive methods for detecting fugitive CO2 in the atmosphere allow geologic storage project developers to confidently quantify the amount of CO2 permanently stored in geologic repositories, leading to improved storage techniques and reduced emissions. Specifically, this project developed and validated a scanning eye-safe diode laser-based DIAL system to determine possible CO2 leakage to the atmosphere over large areas and for extended periods.