Gases

D₂O / HDO Monitoring

D₂O (heavy water) is used as a neutron moderator in certain types of nuclear reactors (CANDU reactors in particular). Interactions between D₂O molecules and H₂0 molecules result in the production of HDO (Hydrogen-Deuterium Oxide). For every two H₂O molecules and two D₂O molecules that react, two HDO molecules are produced, leaving one H₂O molecule and one D₂O molecule.

In the normal environment, where H₂O dominates, D₂O is rapidly converted in its entirety to HDO. Similarly, a D₂O leak at a nuclear reactor will interact with the more dominant H₂O in the area instantaneously to form HDO. In this case, virtually all of the D₂O molecules from the leak will disappear, leaving behind H₂O and HDO molecules. Measuring the concentration of HDO provides an indication of how large the leak is.

We offer the ideal TDLAS technology for D₂O/HDO monitoring. Our instruments ensure accurate and rapid response to HDO levels. The Unisearch LasIR provides:

Reliable, accurate data
Rapid response – within seconds if desired
Multiple location monitoring for both fire detection and combustion optimization
Continuous emissions monitoring
Freedom from interferences from other gases which could result in erroneous data
Easy maintenance and improved process control