Fieldable, Real-Time NO2 Sensor

This Small Business Innovative Research Phase I proposal seeks to develop a compact, autonomous NO2 sensor for air monitoring applications based on laser induced fluorescence (LIF). A key component in the proposed system is new laser technology developed at NovaWave. The Phase I research will directly demonstrate the utility of this new light source by performing LIF measurements on NO2 samples in a laboratory setting. The Phase II system will fully integrate the laser with an autonomous spectrometer and air sampling system to comprise a complete sensor package. Phase III will result in the development of fieldable commercial systems that will be manufactured and distributed to the regional end users.

The potential commercial applications based on the sensor technology described in this proposal are quite large. NO2 monitoring by a network of urban air quality monitoring stations is a critical component to understanding the chemistry of air pollution and ozone depletion, and has recently been mandated by the EPA. This need creates a significant market opportunity.

Potential NASA applications for the proposed technology include the study of the Earth's atmosphere, and the atmospheres of other celestial bodies.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.