Test of SIMAGAZ: a LWIR cryogenic multispectral infrared camera for methane gas leak detection and quantification

Cryogenic cameras are an innovative alternative in the design of miniaturized infrared cameras using cryogenic detectors. In this presentation, we will apply this technology to design a snapshot multispectral camera for gas leak detection. A UAV compatible demonstrator in a commercial Detector Dewar Cooler Assembly (DDCA), called SIMAGAZ, has been made and tested in the TOTAL Anomaly Detection Initiatives (TADI) platform and the Esperce site of ONERA. The TADI infrastructure manages monitored gas leaks at flowrates from 0.1 g/s to 300 g/s and hosts remote sensors to test them in three scenarios: crisis-management, safety monitoring, and environmental monitoring. In Esperce site, first UAV flights with SIMAGAZ were performed. We demonstrate the ability to detect and quantify in real time the origin of methane gas leak, the flowrate and the volume of the plume with SIMAGAZ on ground or from a UAV. The core camera weights around 1kg, for around 1L footprint and a power consumption of 10W at the cooling steady state. Results from TADI and Esperce campaigns will be presented.

Automated summary

This article introduces a new technology of designing multispectral cameras using cryogenic detectors for gas leak detection. By testing on different platforms, the application of this technology in crisis management, safety monitoring, and environmental monitoring is demonstrated.