Autonomous In-Situ Analysis of the Upper Ocean: Construction of a Compact, Long Pathlength Absorbance Spectrometer

Abstract

Abstract : Our research is directed toward utilization of modern optoelectronic technology for real-time monitoring of the ocean's chemical environment with a subtlety and sophistication equivalent to senses of taste and smell. We have made significant advances toward real-time observation of chemical signals with sensitivities comparable to those of the ocean's natural inhabitants. The broad objective of this work is the development of a miniature, long pathlength spectrophotometer for in-situ elemental analysis. The long pathlength of this spectrometer (5 meters) extends the limits of detection of conventional spectrophotometric analyses by close to two orders of magnitude. Realization of our objectives is being pursued through system miniaturization to an extent that will allow construction, in a small volume, of a multiplespectrometer system capable of rapid, simultaneous analysis of a variety of solutes.