Development and Application of Novel Optical Diagnostics to Quantify Pollutant Emissions in the Upstream Energy Industry

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This research program tackles fundamental research challenges in the understanding and measurement of pollutant emissions from the upstream energy industry, an area of critical importance to Canada and the World. Building on a cited record of significant research contributions and publications in high-ranking journals, training of highly-qualified personnel, and direct dissemination of results to government and industry, this proposal lays out short- and long-term objectives for maximizing research impacts over the next five years. Research effort will be focussed on two closely aligned themes: application of novel optical diagnostics to quantify particulate matter emissions from turbulent flames, and innovative approaches for quantifying sources of fugitive emissions. As detailed in the literature review, there are critical gaps in fundamental understanding in both of these areas, as well as technological challenges that impede our ability to quantify and mitigate these significant sources. Leveraging a range of advanced experimental and diagnostic capabilities, the proposed research program will directly enable development of novel diagnostic techniques, fundamental insight into mechanisms of pollutant formation and emissions, accurate quantification of critical pollutant sources not previously measureable, and development of new strategies for mitigation. The research program and objectives are strengthened through active collaborations with the National Research Council, Natural Resources Canada, and faculty within Carleton and at other Universities. By nature the research program is interdisciplinary, covering aspects of combustion theory, turbulent fluid mechanics, applied optics, heat and mass transfer, and public policy, providing diverse opportunities for collaboration and training of highly qualified personnel. Given the ever expanding role of energy production in Canada, success in this endeavour is vital to the health of our environment, to the responsible development of our energy resources and our associated economic competitiveness, and to the ensured availability of HQP to meet future challenges in this field.