________________________________________________________________________________________________ Leak Detection
technology , or it may involve on-the-ground equipment that can help businesses begin building their own data on emissions . Leading the way in this field are high-performance infrared sensors , which pass lasers through a filter inside a sampling chamber to measure the attenuation of incoming light and determine the precise concentrations of gas that are present . Changing the filter in this equipment means different wavelengths of light are allowed to reach the detector , enabling it to be used to check for different kinds of gases with remarkable discrimination and sensitivity .
At Umicore , we help OEMs simplify their gas detection systems while helping to drive advancements that let them use their devices in ways they had never previously considered . With more than 35 years ’ experience in thin film design and manufacture , we have overseen decades of development of custom infrared designs and other tools for building a clear profile of greenhouse gas emissions . Technology such as this is helping businesses fill in the picture on methane emissions and better focus their mitigation attempts . Combined with other methods , action on methane by the oil and gas sector today could cut human-caused emissions by as much as 45 percent within ten years . If achieved , this would stop global temperatures from warming by almost 0.3 ° C by 2045 .
This would represent 20 percent of progress towards the target of limiting global temperature rises to 1.5 ° C and would go a long way to helping achieve targets set out under the Paris Agreement , helping to bring some semblance of stability to an era of geopolitical uncertainty .
As businesses move beyond estimations into a world of empirical measurement , a true revolution in leak mitigation is within reach . Modern technology enables precise tracking of emission changes , providing a greater depth of understanding that will make the oil and gas industry more accountable , help guide regulations , and support companies with their own growth goals .
The fight against climate change is the most challenging fight our planet has ever faced . To overcome the challenges of the future , we can take heed of the words of the past and commit to improving our knowledge of the enemy we face . ■
For a list of the sources used in this article , please contact the editor .
Mark Naples eom . umicore . com
Mark Naples is Managing Director of Umicore Coating Services , one of the leading manufacturers and suppliers of infrared precision optical filters and coatings to some of the most demanding specifications and applications . With over 35 years ’ experience and more than 2500 proven coating processes , its extensive knowledge enables the business to repeatedly manufacture optical coatings with exceptional spectral and environmental performance .
energy-oil-gas . com 23