A Spectroscopy-Based Environmental Solution from NI: A Case Study
In a groundbreaking collaboration between the American University of Beirut and National Instruments (NI), a revolutionary solution was developed to tackle real-time monitoring and control of water pollution, counterfeiting, and environmental studies. This innovative project showcased the power of technology, specifically the combination of a USB-6251 DAQ device and LabVIEW, to create a spectroscopy-based system capable of detecting organic contaminants, dopants, and counterfeit compounds.
Water pollution, counterfeiting, and environmental degradation are critical issues that affect societies worldwide, with direct implications for human health. Traditional monitoring devices, while effective in identifying problems, often face limitations in response time and sample analysis. This project sought to overcome these challenges by developing a system that could provide rapid, nondestructive, and on-site measurements.
The heart of the solution lay in a spectroscopy-based device that utilized molecules emitting light when stimulated. These light emissions, characterized by a red shift, offered a unique advantage with delays in the order of microseconds to milliseconds. This contrasted with fluorescence, which had a much shorter lifetime. The ability to perform this technique on solid surfaces allowed for direct analysis on samples with minimal preparation and destruction.
Key Components
The system comprised a flash lamp serving as an excitation source, a shutter to blind a sensitive charge-coupled device (CCD) detector before exposure to emitted light, optical fibers for transmitting excitation and emission, and a CCD detector. The USB-6251 DAQ device, with its counter/timers, played a crucial role in synchronizing triggers at the microsecond level, ensuring accuracy and ease of use. LabVIEW facilitated efficient data generation and acquisition.
Collaboration with NI
The collaboration between the American University of Beirut and NI was not just limited to hardware. The project received funding from the Partnership for Enhanced Engagement in Research (PEER) program, which leveraged USAID funding to support scientists in developing countries. The partnership with Planet NI and the PEER program further facilitated collaboration, providing crucial support from NI engineers and a LabVIEW specialist postdoctoral fellow.
Results and Impact
The project’s success in developing a reliable and efficient spectroscopy-based system underscored the importance of using cutting-edge technology in fields such as environmental science, forensic science, counterfeiting, and security. The reuse of NI hardware, along with the support received through the Planet NI program, highlighted the adaptability and effectiveness of NI products and services.
This case study exemplified the transformative power of collaboration between academia and industry in addressing pressing global challenges. The marriage of the American University of Beirut’s expertise with NI’s technological prowess resulted in a groundbreaking solution with far-reaching implications for real-time environmental monitoring and counterfeit detection. As we move towards a future where technology plays an increasingly vital role, this project stands as a testament to the potential of innovative partnerships in shaping a better world.
The original case study discussed in this post was co-authored by Dr. Antoine Ghauch and Dr. Ali Ammouri from the American University of Beirut, as well as Dr. David Sedlak from the University of California-Berkeley.
