In this article, we discuss FTIR technology, what makes it unique, and the benefits of having an FTIR emissions monitoring system.

What are the main benefits of FTIR?

FTIR is one of the most reliable and effective technologies out there for emissions monitoring. What’s more, its flexibility and versatility make it a very cost-effective and multipurpose tool for measurements of a wide range of gas components. Here are the main advantages of FTIR in detail:

1. Future-proof

What makes FTIR incomparable is the fact that all gases are measured by scanning the same infrared spectrum. This allows new gases and gas ranges to be added easily to the analysis without any hardware changes to or without changing the analyzer.

Despite updates in the emissions monitoring legislation or best practices, FTIR is (and always has been) capable of adjusting to new requirements, such as lower Emission Limit Values (ELVs) with very little effort. This also supports the claim that FTIR is a future-proof, long-lasting, and profitable investment.

2. Multicomponent Capability

Secondly, FTIR is known for its unbeatable multicomponent capability. There is no other emissions monitoring technology that can measure almost an unlimited number of gases. This makes FTIR a cost-effective option, as all components can be measured and analyzed in one go.

3. Certified Solutions

Gasmet’s FTIR emission monitoring systems are available with EN 15267 TÜV and MCERTS certificates (QAL 1). As stated in the certificates, multiple components are certified in various ranges, including formaldehyde, low-range HF, and low-range NO.

4. Reliability

Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy is undeniably one of the most reliable technologies due to its sensitivity and capability to recognize extremely low concentrations of gases. The Gasmet FTIR gas analyzers can measure from low ppm levels up to vol%.

The system provides reliable and proven operations with high annual availability and a six-month maintenance interval for all certified compounds.

What makes FTIR a unique technology?

The operational principle behind FTIR gas analyzers is based on the identification and quantification of gaseous compounds by their absorbance of infrared radiation. The infrared spectrum of gas is like a fingerprint: each component has a unique molecular structure or combination of atoms. When exposed to infrared light, they produce a unique infrared spectrum. Based on the unique pattern they create, each compound (except diatomic molecules) can be recognized and quantified.

An Example of FTIR Measurement Spectrum Illustrated

 

Measurement uncertainty for specific gases (e.g., CO, NO, NO₂, SO₂, HCl, HF) has a limit value proportional to the emission limit value in the EU Industrial Emissions Directive, and the Gasmet system typically has measurement uncertainties smaller than one-half the maximum uncertainty allowed for a certified (EN 15267-3, TÜV, MCERTS) emissions monitoring system.

This ensures that Gasmet gas analyzers can monitor not only today’s emission limits but also lower limits that may be introduced in the future, making FTIR a future-proof solution.

Practical benefits of FTIR systems in emissions monitoring

Beyond the underlying measurement principle, FTIR technology used in our CEMS solution offers several practical advantages for emissions monitoring in industrial environments. Industrial emissions rarely consist of a single compound, as combustion processes, waste treatment facilities, chemical plants, and other industrial operations can produce complex gas mixtures.

Because FTIR analyzers can measure dozens of compounds simultaneously from a single sample stream, operators can obtain a comprehensive picture of emissions without the need for multiple dedicated analyzers. As a result, monitoring systems can be simpler to install and maintain while still providing detailed information about the emission profile.

Flexibility as regulations evolve

Environmental regulations often change over time, introducing new compounds that must be monitored or lowering permitted emission limits. Because FTIR analyzers measure a full infrared spectrum rather than targeting only specific gases, additional compounds can often be added to the analysis without modifying the hardware. This flexibility helps operators adapt to evolving monitoring requirements without significant changes to the measurement system.

Insight into complex emission sources

The ability to monitor multiple gases simultaneously also provides valuable insight into industrial processes. Changes in gas composition can reveal process variations, combustion inefficiencies, or unexpected by-products. By capturing a broader picture of emissions, FTIR emission monitoring systems can help operators better understand process performance and identify opportunities to improve efficiency or reduce emissions.

Future-proof measurement capability

Gasmet emission monitoring systems also provide the possibility for retrospective analysis. Since the full spectrum of the sample is recorded, previously collected data can be reanalyzed if new compounds later become relevant. This capability can be particularly valuable in research applications, regulatory investigations, or situations where emission profiles need to be reviewed after measurements have been completed.

 

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Learn more about our CEMS II e CEMS II e offers modular and TÜV and MCERTS certified (QAL1) solutions for environmental compliance in industrial processes, such as power plants, waste incineration, cement plants and beyond. The system adjusts to changes in regulations and future advances in emissions monitoring best practices with ease.