A mobile differential absorption lidar /DIAL/ for range-resolved measurement of SO2, O3, and NO2

A mobile DIAL system has been developed to map out the distribution of SO2, O3, and NO2 associated with power plant plumes. The laser radar (lidar) device uses the absorption properties of these gases in the atmosphere to assess their concentrations along the laser beam path. By scanning the lidar, areas as large as 7 sq km may be mapped out. Results of a power plant plume study are presented, demonstrating the capability of the system. Some measurements made in correlation with an SO2 monitor and earlier measurements on a previous system with an NO2 monitor are also given. By making simple wavelength adjustments, O3 or NO2 may be measured with the present system.