Examining Methane and Non-methane Hydrocarbons in an Oil and Gas Production Area using Low-cost Sensor Arrays

Abstract:

During the 2014 FRAPPE/DISCOVER-AQ sampling campaigns a network of next-generation, low-cost air quality monitors were placed throughout the Colorado Front Range area. The network covered areas ranging from high saturation of oil and gas development to no development. We are leveraging the monitors’ multiple ‘off-the-shelf’ sensors to collect and analyze continuous data on volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The monitors were developed at the University of Colorado Boulder and include different VOC sensor models, as well as sensors for other gas-phase pollutants (e.g., carbon dioxide and ozone). Using high-quality methane and non-methane hydrocarbon data collected by the Penn State Native Trailer research team and Armin Wisthaler’s research team (University of Oslo) as a reference we can calibrate data for one of our monitors. Additionally, through the use of various quantification models we can characterize sensor responses to specific VOCs and groups of VOCs. The primary monitor was located at the Native Trailer in Platteville throughout the study. By using this monitor for secondary field normalization, we can apply our quantification methods to the remaining monitors in the network. The sensor network data provides greater spatial resolution than would be possible with fewer, more expensive instruments. In addition to discussing the quantification of low-cost sensors, we will examine how the spatial and temporal variability of hydrocarbon concentrations throughout the area relates to sources, specifically oil and gas development and its impacts on air quality. Although more research is needed, low-cost sensor arrays have the potential to support reference-quality measurements and expand our capacity in future oil and gas related research.