Abstract: A system and method for optical interrogation and measurement of a hydrocarbon fuel gas includes a light source generating light at near-visible wavelengths. A cell containing the gas is optically coupled to the light source which is in turn partially transmitted by the sample. A spectrometer disperses the transmitted light and captures an image thereof. The image is captured by a low-cost silicon-based two-dimensional CCD array. The captured spectral image is processed by electronics for determining energy or BTU content and composition of the gas. The innovative optical approach provides a relatively inexpensive, durable, maintenance-free sensor and method which is reliable in the field and relatively simple to calibrate. In view of the above, accurate monitoring is possible at a plurality of locations along the distribution chain leading to more efficient distribution.

Abstract: A leak detector for monitoring, in an area being investigated, the presence of a liquid having a characteristic fluorescence spectrum. The leak detector includes a radiation source, with the radiation provided to the area being investigated. The detector also includes a collector for collecting radiation, in the fluorescence emission band of the liquid being monitored, emitted from the area being investigated. The presence of this liquid is sensed by detection of a threshold level of collected radiation. The size of a stain of the liquid relative to the size of the field of view of the collector is then determined.

Abstract: An ultraviolet absorption hygrometer is provided including a source of pulsed ultraviolet radiation for providing radiation in a first wavelength region where water absorbs significantly and in a second proximate wavelength region where water absorbs weakly. Ultraviolet radiation in the first and second regions which has been transmitted through a sample path of atmosphere is detected. The intensity of the radiation transmitted in each of the first and second regions is compared and from this comparison the amount of water in the sample path is determined.