Lidar optical amp helps gas industry find methane leaks and avoid costly losses
5 hours ago
- #lidar-technology
- #energy-efficiency
- #methane-detection
- The U.S. energy industry loses 3% of natural gas production annually due to leaks, costing $1 billion.
- Bridger Photonics developed a methane-detecting lidar with MIT Lincoln Laboratory's SCOWA technology, enhancing detection capabilities.
- The methane-detecting lidar is 10 to 50 times more effective than other airborne sensors.
- Nine of the top 10 U.S. natural gas producers use Bridger's technology to detect and repair leaks.
- Lincoln Laboratory's SCOWA technology was crucial for achieving the required laser power at 1.65 microns.
- The Gas Mapping Lidar won an R&D 100 Award in 2019 and is widely adopted in the industry.
- Chevron highlights the technology's ability to detect leaks 10 times smaller than other methods.
- Lincoln Laboratory continues to innovate, with plans to expand its semiconductor facilities for broader applications.