Miniaturized spectrometer for chlorine compound detection in water

Overview

This solution is a miniaturized spectrometer designed to detect and quantify chlorine compounds in water through vibrational spectroscopy. By leveraging the distinct vibrational signatures of individual chlorine compounds, the sensor enables non-destructive, continuous, and compound-specific identification without the need for chemical reagents or sample preparation. The technology addresses a critical need in water quality monitoring, where rapid and accurate detection of chlorine species is essential for public health, industrial process control, and environmental compliance.

The sensor architecture integrates a flow tube with fluorescence-collecting parabolic mirror optics for Raman spectroscopy or absorption-detecting optics for infrared spectroscopy. Optical fibers connect the sensing head to a main processing unit, enabling flexible deployment in the field. The project is led by an interdisciplinary team with expertise spanning physics, chemistry, and engineering, supported by a research environment with extensive experience in developing novel spectroscopic techniques and instrumentation.

Technical specifications

Core technology:

• Vibrational spectroscopy (Raman and infrared) applied to chlorine compound identification in aqueous environments
• Flow tube design for continuous liquid sampling
• Parabolic mirror plus lens system for fluorescence collection (Raman mode)
• Absorption-detecting optics for infrared mode
• Fiber-optic connection between sensor head and main processing unit

Key capabilities:

• Non-destructive measurement preserving sample integrity
• Continuous monitoring capability for real-time water quality assessment
• Compound-specific identification based on unique vibrational signatures
• Compact, miniaturized form factor suitable for field deployment

Validation approach:

• Laboratory measurement of infrared and Raman spectra across known chloramine concentrations in water samples
• Comparative analysis to determine which spectroscopic method is better suited for chlorine compound detection
• Iterative sensor design informed by laboratory spectral data
• Prototype development targeting completion within one year of project initiation

Technology readiness level

The underlying measurement techniques (infrared and Raman spectroscopy in liquids) are well-established as precise, standard analytical methods in the field. This project represents the miniaturization and optimization of these proven techniques specifically for chlorine compound detection in water. The current development phase focuses on laboratory validation of spectral detection methods for known chloramine concentrations before proceeding to sensor design and prototype fabrication. A functional prototype is anticipated within one year of project commencement. Funding is sought for personnel and equipment acquisition, including lasers, optics, and electronics required for sensor development.