New Metrology for Hydrogen Flame Imaging

More than 85% of the global energy system is based on the combustion of fossil fuels such as oil, natural gas and coal. Hydrogen is an alternative as it may be derived from renewable sources, has suitable calorific characteristics and environmental compatibility and has already been used in the steel and aerospace industries.

There are key technical challenges yet to be solved. Particularly, there is no effective method to image and measure the temperature of hydrogen flames. The traditional methods for measuring the flame temperature are either the invasive detector or utilisation of the solid powder. These methods would interfere with the process and are inappropriate for industrial use. Another challenge is monitoring the materials being heated because of obstruction by the flames.

In this project, we propose a new non-invasive method for hydrogen flame imaging using the emission ratios of multiple wavelengths. The developed instrument could either image the flame profile or look through the flame and at the target materials. 

The project will primarily focus on measurement within the metals industry, but the concept is transferable to other foundation industries which may utilise hydrogen. The project will involve the design of the hyperspectral camera, spectral measurements, and the development of the temperature metrology. The success of this project will  accelerate the progress of hydrogen fuel development and help different industries utilise energy efficiently.

Yugen Lai

University of Sheffield