Grant: Strategic Projects - Group

This proposal is directed toward the Strategic target area of Healthy Environment and Ecosystems and addresses the research topic of Waste Management and Site Remediation, Analytical Tools.There is much concern over the potential hazards of industrial and landfill remediation sites and landfill gas emissions. Hazardous air pollutants (HAP) at sufficient levels can result in negative health effects due to both short-term and long-term exposures.Recent technical advances suggest an opportunity to dramatically improve emissions monitoring through the use of laser technology. Quantification of fugitive emission of pollutants over very large areas will become possible by combining a new laser technology, known as the Quantum Cascade Laser, with a new emissions monitoring technique called Radial Plume Mapping.The first objective of this project is to develop a Quantum Cascade laser suitable for open path spectroscopic analysis of atmospheric pollutants. The second objective is to develop an open path mid infrared spectroscopic analyzer technology that is suitable for use hi the field. The final objective is to apply the new QCL technology to site remediation and other similar applications. The third objective, which will involve field trials, is longer term and beyond the scope of this proposal but would be the outcome of its successful completion. The laser technology will include microelectromechanicalsystems (MEMS) and will be fabricated using Nanotechnology fabrication facilities.The project will involve two companies; Boreal Laser, a manufacturer of laser environmental analyzers and ;Norcada, a MEMS developer and manufacturer. Part of the project will be supervised by two representatives from these companies. The project will also involve a member of the engineering faculty,a member of the science faculty, four students and two research associates.