Remote sensing of gases by hyperspectral imaging: algorithms and results of field measurements

Remote gas detection and visualization provides vital information in scenarios involving chemical accidents, terrorist attacks or gas leaks. Previous work showed how imaging infrared spectroscopy can be used to assess the location, the dimensions, and the dispersion of a potentially hazardous cloud. In this work the latest developments of an infrared hyperspectral imager based on a Michelson interferometer in combination with a focal plane array detector are presented. The performance of the system is evaluated by laboratory measurements. The system was deployed in field measurements to identify industrial gas emissions. Excellent results were obtained by successfully identifying released gases from relatively long distances.