Research done by the Infrared Photonics team at PNNL is focused on developing miniaturized integrated optics for the MWIR and LWIR by exploiting the unique optical and material properties of chalcogenide glass. PNNL has developed thin film deposition capabilities, direct-laser writing techniques, IR photonic device demonstration, holographic optical element design and fabrication, photonic device modeling, and advanced optical metrology - all specific to chalcogenide glass. Chalcogenide infrared photonics provides a pathway to Quantum Cascade Laser (QCL) transmitter miniaturization. QCLs provide a viable infrared laser source for a new class of laser transmitters capable of meeting the performance requirements for a variety of national security sensing applications. The high output power, small size, and superb stability and modulation characteristics of QCLs make them amenable for integration as transmitters into ultra-sensitive, ultra-selective point sampling and remote short-range chemical sensors that are particularly useful for nuclear nonproliferation missions.

This report describes the preparation and application of molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) for the highly selective analysis of target signature compounds. The overall goal of this project task is to exploit the high selectivity of MIPs to generate a pure and enriched fraction of target analyte from environmental samples, either during the sampling stage or immediately thereafter. Due to the high purity of analyte fraction obtained, simplified field portable instrumentation that is capable of high performance trace analysis can be constructed. Major sections contained in this FY 2004 Final Report describe: (1) the synthesis and evaluation of MIPs specific toward explosives, (2) the design, construction, and performance of a novel instrument for the trace aqueous analysis of G-series nerve agent hydrolysis compounds, and (3) interfacing MIP separations with ion mobility spectrometric detection.

The principal goal of Pacific Northwest National Laboratory's (PNNL's) Infrared Technology for Advanced Sensors Project is to explore and develop the science and technology behind point and stand off infrared (IR) spectroscopic chemical sensors that are needed for detecting weapons proliferation activity. The primary use of the technology is to detect the chemical signatures associated with the production or use of chemical, biological, or nuclear weapons. In FY04 PNNL continued the development of a Shortwave Infrared (SWIR) point sensor based on optical Cavity Ringdown Spectroscopy (CRDS). During the year this instrument participated in 3 field tests, including the indoor UF6 release experiment which took place on the Hanford Site in Aug. 2004. The field tests demonstrated the robustness of CRDS as a fieldable technology for sensitive detection of airborne analytes. The instrument was altered from detecting ammonia with a detection limit of {approx} 1 ppmv to detect hydrogen fluoride with a detection limit of {approx} 3 ppbv. The differences in limits of detection between these two chemicals is accounted for by the relative differences in the absorption strength of the two molecules (with HF having a much larger absorption strength than ammonia). In addition to the field tests, the instrument …

Annual report detailing expenditures by the Texas Department of Transportation during 2004, including the unified transportation program (UTP), turnpike and toll road projects, and some rail facilities, as well as the amount of bonds, public securities, and other funds used for transportation projects.