Researchers at LSU have developed a fiber-optic sensor system that could help pipeline operators detect escaping gases while also measuring humidity, providing more information to assess leaks and corrosion risks, Pipeline & Gas Journal reports.
The technology uses specialized metal-organic framework, or MOF, coatings on optical fibers to distinguish among carbon dioxide, methane, nitrogen and ordinary air flow, while also monitoring moisture levels. LSU researcher FNU Jyoti says identifying the gas can indicate the type of danger present, while humidity can help determine how quickly pipeline deterioration may occur.
The system could be particularly useful for detecting conditions that accelerate corrosion. When carbon dioxide mixes with moisture, it can form carbonic acid, which can increase corrosion of steel pipelines.
The research builds on previous LSU work using fiber-optic sensors to monitor pipeline temperature, pressure and stress, measurements that can be influenced by external factors such as temperature changes and traffic vibrations. Researchers have tested the new system in laboratory conditions with varying humidity and developed a numerical model that LSU says can predict MOF performance with more than 95% accuracy, potentially allowing sensor materials to be screened digitally before laboratory testing.
The team plans to conduct larger-scale experiments in a 5,000-foot wellbore to evaluate the technology under more realistic operating conditions. LSU is now seeking industry partners or funding to advance and potentially commercialize the technology.
