Gas sensor

Natural gas makes it possible to simultaneously produce thermal energy and electrical power, as is the case in Veolia Energy's cogeneration plants (engines, gas turbines and boilers).
The excellent energy efficiency of natural gas limits pollutant discharge. However, the drawback is that natural gas composition varies depending on its origin.
As part of its optimization policy, Veolia's R&D was therefore entrusted with the development of an analysis process so that the plants can adapt to gas variations in real time.

Since 2000 a team of researchers, assembled as a result of the partnership between Veolia's energy research Center and Nantes' Ecole des Mines, has focused on the correlations between the composition of natural gas and its physical properties.
These correlations were modeled and the researchers demonstrated that, statistically, the knowledge of 2 physical properties was sufficient to identify 3 natural gas compounds. The analysis of certain physical parameters is therefore sufficient to determine the variations in gas composition in terms of calorific value or methane index.
A prototype was created based on this observation. Veolia's Research joined forces with ACTARIS, leader in energy metering systems, in order to industrialize this sensor prototype. This sensor is now marketed by ACTARIS with the support of Dalkia.

After 6 years of research and 4 patents, the gas sensor continuously evaluates the quality of natural gas. Knowledge of the variations in composition makes it possible to regulate the engines accordingly and prevent two problems: abnormal combustion (spontaneous combustion) and shock waves in the engine ("knocking" phenomenon).
Thus, the energy and environmental efficiency of gas-fired facilities is optimized.
By facilitating the industrial operation of natural gas, Veolia's R&D is therefore creating a new way to combine technology with ecology.