Leakage source location based on Gaussian plume diffusion model using a near-infrared sensor

Developing sensitive sensors to measure trace gas concentration levels is important for environmental monitoring. Leakage source location based on measured concentration levels to prevent potential danger is of significance. A near-infrared methane (CH4) sensor system with a modulation frequency of 4 kHz targeting the absorption line at 6046.95 cm(-1) and an Allan deviation of 850 parts-per-billion by volume (ppbv) was employed for leakage source location. A static odor source localization algorithm based on the Gauss plume diffusion model and a least square method is proposed. Formulations and equations of leakage location were deduced. An iterative search program was used to obtain the optimal solution. Simulation result showed the synthetic location error of 7.91%, which was close to the experimental result of 8.93%. Feasibility of the location algorithm was verified through the comparison.