Project Portugal 2030

Summary

Through this ‘ChalcoMeth Sensor’project, we are embarking on a multifaceted journey aimed at achieving several key goals: 1. Setting up of Chalcogenide Preparation Facility: The establishment of a chalcogenide glass preparation facility at the University of Aveiro marks a pivotal step in advancing materials science research in Portugal. This facility will be equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and expertise necessary for synthesizing CGs tailored to our specific requirements. 2. Complete Characterization of CGs: Once CGs are prepared, comprehensive characterization will be conducted to understand their thermal, structural and optical properties. 3. Exploration of Sensing Properties of RE3+ Ions doped in CGs: RE ions doped into CGs exhibit unique optical properties, making them promising candidates for sensing applications. Our research will delve into understanding the ions that are capable of emitting in the region of CH4 gas absorption in MIR region, exploring their potential for selective and sensitive detection through MIR emission spectroscopy. 4. Drawing Chalcogenide Glass Fibers: Collaborating with Prof. Frederic Smektala's team at ICB, Dijon, France, we will leverage their expertise and facilities for drawing chalcogenide glass fibers. These fibers will be tailored to our specifications, ensuring optimal transmission properties and compatibility with MIR spectroscopy. 5. Prototype Development for CH4 Detection via MIR Emission of RE-Doped Chalcogenide Fibers: The culmination of our efforts will be the development of prototype CH4 detectors utilizing MIR emission from RE3+-doped chalcogenide fibers. These prototypes will undergo rigorous testing and validation to assess their sensitivity, selectivity, and reliability for CH4 detection in real-world environments.