Low-cost eddy covariance sensor for greenhouse gas emission measurement
A rugged, low-cost eddy covariance sensor using off-the-shelf components, 3D-printed weatherproof housing, and Arduino-based real-time processing to directly measure greenhouse gas flux. Designed for standalone solar-powered IoT deployment across multiple field locations at a fraction of the cost of commercial systems.
Overview
This solution offers a direct, accurate method for measuring greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere using eddy covariance (EC) techniques at a fraction of the cost of existing commercial systems. Current EC instruments can exceed $25,000, are bulky, and require significant infrastructure. This innovation simplifies the approach using low-cost, off-the-shelf components integrated into a student-designed, 3D-printed weatherproof platform powered by solar panels and connected through an internet-of-things (IoT) framework.
The technology enables distributed deployment of multiple sensors across a field, allowing organizations to map greenhouse gas flux with high spatial resolution. It is being developed at the University of Cincinnati, where initial feasibility work on indoor swimming pool evaporation measurement has validated the core measurement components.
Technical specifications
- Gas concentration measurement uses infrared (IR) spectroscopy based on the principle that greenhouse gases strongly attenuate IR light. Low-cost IR LEDs and photodetectors measure IR intensity reduction, from which the Beer-Lambert law calculates gas concentration.
- Wind velocity measurement uses a low-cost 1D ultrasonic anemometer to capture vertical wind speed.
- Real-time flux computation is performed on an Arduino platform using a covariance algorithm that combines co-located point measurements of speed and concentration to determine net upward gas flux.
- Customizable gas detection is achieved by selecting IR LEDs at different wavelengths for different target gases.
- Rugged, weatherproof housing is 3D-printed for low-cost replication and field durability.
- Standalone operation is supported through solar panel power and IoT connectivity, enabling remote deployment without dedicated infrastructure.
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at an early-to-mid stage of development. Individual measurement components, specifically IR attenuation for gas concentration and ultrasonic sensing for wind velocity, have been validated in laboratory settings at the University of Cincinnati. The team is now working toward integration of the full sensor package, with planned initial field testing at the university recreation center's indoor swimming pool in 2023. Results from this integration phase will inform the final greenhouse gas sensor design. Full commercial readiness will require successful integrated field validation and replication of the sensor package.
About University of Cincinnati
The University of Cincinnati is a comprehensive public research university with an applied, urban-serving character and a significant clinical enterprise. Industry engages through one of the nation's largest cooperative education programs, placing students year-round with corporate R&D and operations teams and creating an on-ramp to sponsored research. An innovation district near campus hosts co-located corporate labs, startup space, and shared prototyping facilities, while the university's integration with a major hospital system enables clinical studies and translation. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NIH and NSF, along with state and industry partnerships. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, corporate agreements, and startup formation, providing flexible models for collaboration.
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