Project Title: Novel Probes for Real Time Monitoring of Dissolved Gases and their Isotopologues in Aquatic Systems
Duration: May 2025 – December 2026
Funding Source: NOAA-SBIR (NOAA-OAR-OAR-TPO-2022-2007117)
Lead Investigator: Scott Wankel, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (Marine Chemistry)
Contact: sdwankel@whoi.edu
Lead Investigator: Joanne Shorter, Aerodyne Research, 45 Manning Rd., Billerica MA 01821
Contact: shorter@aerodyne.com
Project Description: Dissolved gases are major signals of ecosystem processes that offer key insights into the health and function of aquatic systems including photosynthesis, respiration and nutrient cycling among many others. The goal of this project is to develop an underwater sampling probe that can be coupled to cutting-edge sensors for measuring concentrations and stable isotope composition of climatically active trace gases including methane and nitrous oxide. We will test a new field-based analysis system, evaluating a new probe design for an underwater inlet placed in the shallow waters of Waquoit Bay to monitor levels of methane and nitrous oxide in real time. Concentrations and isotopic composition measurements will be automatically made using a tunable diode laser absorption spectrometer (TDLAS). Understanding variations in the concentrations and isotopic composition of these gases will help inform how coastal systems like Waquoit Bay may serve as important sources or sinks of these important atmospheric trace gases. This project represents a collaboration between a small business (Aerodyne Research, Inc.) and a research institution (WHOI).
