Cantilever enhanced based photoacoustic detection of SF6 decomposition component SO2 using UV LED

Purpose This paper aims to establish a photoacoustic detection system for SO2 using UV-LED and testify its feasibility for sensitive measurement. The work in this paper can avoid potential crossover interference in infrared (IR) range and also balance the capability and cost of feasible excitation for photoacoustic detection system. Design/methodology/approach In this experimental work, a cantilever-enhanced-based photoacoustic SO2 detection system using an ultraviolet (UV) LED light source with a light power of 4 mW as the excitation was established. Findings A feasible photoacoustic detection system for SO2 using UV-LED was established. Experimental results demonstrate that the detection limit of the system can reach the level of 0.667 ppm, which can serve as a reference for the application of PAS in insulation fault diagnosis. Originality/value This work investigated the potential of using ultraviolet photoacoustic spectroscopy to detect trace SO2, which provided an ideal replacement of infrared-laser-based detection system. In this paper, a photoacoustic detection system using LED with a low light power was established. Low light power requirement can expand the options of light sources accordingly. In this paper, the absorption characteristics of SO2 in the presented detection system and ultraviolet range were studied. And the detection limit of the presented system was given. Both of which can provide reference to SO2 detection in ambient SF6.