Direct Marker Detection in Pressurized Hydrocarbon Fluids
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for detecting markers in pressurized hydrocarbon fluids, such as LPG, require sampling and laboratory analysis, which are costly and inefficient, and can lead to nozzle fouling due to high marker concentrations, while also failing to address the issue of counterfeit and adulterated petroleum products.
Innovation Solution
A direct detection apparatus and method that couples a detector to the hydrocarbon fluid source, allowing for on-site, reagent-free assessment of marker presence using a fluorometer or spectrometer, with markers chosen for stability and solubility to prevent fouling and adulteration detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If markers are added to LPG at high ppm levels for identification, then the marker concentration is sufficient for detection, but nozzle fouling and injection system fouling occur
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the concentration parameter of markers from high ppm levels to low ppb levels, and simultaneously changes the detection method parameter from conventional sampling to direct in-line detection, thereby achieving both sufficient detection capability and prevention of nozzle fouling
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the mechanical sampling and laboratory analysis system with a direct optical detection system that uses fluorometers or spectrometers to detect markers in the liquid phase, eliminating the need for physical sampling that causes nozzle fouling
2Measurement precision
If conventional sampling methods are used to detect markers, then marker presence can be determined, but the process is costly and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is installed directly at the LPG source and performs self-testing of the fluid stream, eliminating the need for external sampling and laboratory analysis, thereby achieving continuous automated authentication
Solution Approach 2:
The invention enables continuous detection of markers in the LPG stream as it flows through the system, rather than performing discrete batch sampling and analysis, thereby achieving constant authentication and improved productivity
3Measurement precision
If markers are added to indicate LPG origin and use, then product authentication is possible, but adulteration and counterfeiting risks remain
Solution Approach 1:
The invention implements a feedback system where marker detection results are immediately available and can trigger alarms or shutdowns when adulteration is detected, providing real-time protection against counterfeiting and enabling rapid response to authentication failures
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables rapid, cost-effective, and efficient authentication of hydrocarbon fluids at the source, reducing the risk of adulteration and counterfeiting, and minimizing equipment damage from markers, while allowing continuous monitoring and quantitative assessment of marker concentrations.
Implementation Method 1
The markers may include, for example, fluorescent material
Implementation Method 2
a detector for detecting a property, i.e. the concentration, of the marker in the pressurized hydrocarbon fluid
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
This invention generally relates to a method and apparatus for direct detection of one or more markers in pressurized hydrocarbon fluids. The apparatus includes a vessel (130) and one or more valves (150, 160, 170). The hydrocarbon fluid (240) may be a liquid or gas. Markers may include a variety of- optical markers, such as fluorescent markers. The apparatus may be coupled to a hydrocarbon fluid source (210), and the vessel (130) may be at least partially filled with hydrocarbon fluid from the hydrocarbon fluid source (210). A> detector (140) coupled to the vessel (130) may be used to detect at least one of the markers in the hydrocarbon fluid (240) while the apparatus is coupled to the hydrocarbon fluid source (210) and without the addition of reagents. Detection of markers may include, for example, fluorescence detection.