Lyza Ells
Investigating the field applicability of a novel open cell wavelength modulation absorption spectrometer for detection of methane in the mid-infrared
Methane is one of the most-emitted greenhouse gases in Canada, second only to carbon dioxide. With a global warming potential of about 25 times that of CO2 on a 100-year timescale, it is clear that controlling the release of methane to the environment is a promising means of slowing global warming. Canada signed onto the Global Methane Pledge in October 2021, signifying a commitment to reduce methane emissions to 30% below 2020 levels by the year 2030. Accurate means of quantifying methane emissions are required as a precursor to the implementation of meaningful regulations. Field applicability of a novel open cell wavelength modulation absorption spectrometer developed by the National Research Council (NRC) is investigated for this purpose through a series of experiments. Two laboratory experiments are conducted to determine the effect of a range of ambient temperatures and pressures on the methane detection level of the instrument. A field test is conducted to assess the advantages and difficulties presented by the open cell design of the instrument. Field data are compared to an industry standard greenhouse gas analyzer, and their differences analyzed computationally. A comprehensive summary of the behaviour of the instrument under a range of field conditions is presented. The instrument is found to present an immense opportunity high accuracy in targeted probing of methane sites of interest.
Brayden Lee
Modelling Quantum Well Solar Cells Using Python
Quantum well solar cells are emerging as a promising option to increase efficiency within the solar energy sector. They utilize quantum transport of electrons through potential energy wells formed by layers of different semiconductor materials. Their theoretical description involves solving the Schrödinger-Poisson problem, in which the electron wave function is affected by the electric potential in these materials, and the electric potential depends on the electron density, i.e., on the wave function. We have created a Python simulation that models charge carrier density and electric potential for a customizable quantum well solar cell setup at room temperature. We solve the Schrödinger-Poisson problem using a self-consistent method involving the Schrödinger and Poisson equations, as well as Hartree potentials. We demonstrate the capabilities of the program by solving a Si/Si junction within 6 iterations.
