Abstract

This paper describes an optical technique and instrumentation for measuring the average particle size and mass concentration of smoke. Transmission through the smoke at three wavelengths (0.45 μm, 0.63 μm, and 1.00 μm) is measured using a white light source and a compact, three-wavelength detector assembly. Sizes and concentrations are then calculated from the transmission data using Mie theory. Graphs of the calculated Mie extinction coefficients are presented for several complex refractive indices. This three-wavelength optical technique was used to study smoke from a wood-tunnel fire, and the results are compared to those of other sizing techniques.

© 1979 Optical Society of America

Opacity of black smoke: calculated variation with particle size and refractive index

David M. Roessler and Fred R. Faxvog
Appl. Opt. 18(9) 1399-1403 (1979)

Airborne lidar measurements of smoke plume distribution, vertical transmission, and particle size

Edward E. Uthe, Bruce M. Morley, and Norman B. Nielsen
Appl. Opt. 21(3) 460-463 (1982)

Optical particle sizing for in situ measurements Part 1

Don Holve and Sidney A. Self
Appl. Opt. 18(10) 1632-1645 (1979)

Optical particle sizing for in situ measurements Part 2

Don Holve and Sidney A. Self
Appl. Opt. 18(10) 1646-1652 (1979)

Optoacoustic measurement of optical absorption in acetylene smoke

D. M. Roessler and F. R. Faxvog
J. Opt. Soc. Am. 69(12) 1699-1704 (1979)