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Methods for measuring and monitoring ocean processes have changed
dramatically over the past few decades. Only a few years ago,
chemical measurements were made on water samples collected from
shipboard. While this method is still being used, ship based
measurements provide information only about the conditions at the
time of the ship's visit and do not typically provide the time
series necessary to understand ocean variability. Consequently,
researchers have developed alternative deployment methods including
moorings, gliders, profilers and other autonomous instrumented
vehicles. These alternative platforms require accurate, stable and
low powered instruments that are capable of long-term deployment.
Satisfying these measurement needs is among the principle objectives
of R&D at PSI.
Very early we recognized that a sensor that measures pressure could
offer exceptional precision and long-term accuracy for measuring
dissolved gases. At PSI we subsequently developed an in situ
instrument (the GTD-Pro) for measuring gas tension that is highly
accurate, precise, and stable. Our GTD-Pro has now been used by
numerous researchers to provide the measurements for understanding a
broad range of aquatic processes. Our GTD-Pro has an accuracy of
better than 0.02 % per year, and a precision of microbars.
PSI continues to invest in research and development in an effort to
provide the most useful and reliable dissolved gas sensors in the
marketplace. Many of our customers face unique challenges in their
research, leading to active involvement of PSI engineers. The
combined knowledge and experience of the PSI team allows us to face
these challenges and respond with innovative and practical
solutions.
Engineers and scientists at PSI are currently involved in:
- improving all aspects of our current instrument designs
- developing gas sensors for measuring a broader range of dissolved gases
- improving anti-fouling techniques
- designing more versatile controllers and data loggers.
- developing TCO2 Sensor
