Selection of the Optimum Operating Temperature of the Photodetector in the Helicopter Laser Locator of Methane Leaks "Aeropoisk-3M"

About the author:

Sergey G. Montanari, Cand. Sci. (Phys.-Math.), Associate Professor, Department of Experimental Physics and Nanotechnology, Institute of Physics and Technology, Tyumen State University; smontanari@mail.ru

Abstract:

The paper presents the results of an experimental study of the temperature dependence of the main parameters of semiconductor photoresistors of the middle IR range based on PbSe. These photoresistors are used in the receiving optical path (λ ~ 3.4 μm) of helicopter laser locators for methane leaks from the gas mains "Aeropisk-3M", developed at the Tyumen State University. These locators are operated in gas transportation enterprises of PJSC "Gazprom" in conditions of significant seasonal temperature differences, therefore, the study of the effect of temperature changes on the main parameters of photoresistors and, in general, on the operational characteristics of laser locators of methane leaks is of practical interest. The paper describes an experimental laboratory setup for investigating the dependence of the dark resistance, the volt-watt sensitivity, the spectral density of the root-mean-square noise voltage and the photoresistors detectability on temperature, the measurement procedure is presented, the experimental results obtained and their discussion are presented. Based on the analysis of the experimental data, a conclusion is drawn in the paper about the optimal temperature range of the semiconductor PbSe photoresistors used, lying within 5..10°C. It is at these temperatures that the maximum detection power of the photodetectors used is reached, while maintaining an acceptable speed of the laser locator of methane leaks. The use of an active (based on small Peltier elements) thermal stabilization of the photodetector within the specified temperature range will significantly improve the characteristics of the "Aeropisk-3M" locator, in particular, improve the stability of its operation during year-round operation and increase the sensitivity of detection of methane leaks in periods characterized by high Ambient temperature.

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