Identifying and eliminating sources of noise using Lock-In Amplification in remote detection of oil spills

This research project has been a collaborative research project between InterOcean Systems, LLC, and San Diego State University addressing the environmental & economic impact of oceanic oil spills. Our proposed solution is a long-range, fluorescent-based optical detection system where an LED shines UV (ultraviolet) light onto the ocean surface, and the oil-slicked surface fluoresces back into the detector, signaling a positive reading.



An SR830 Lock-In Amplifier (LIA) has been beneficial in picking up small signals among major sources of noise such as sunlight and operation at high voltage. By implementing Fourier's theorem, we intend to analyze relevant components of our sinusoidal signals such as the operating frequency and phase shift to minimize the amount of noise via outside interference. The LIA is wired to output a reference signal that is compared to the signal input from the oil slick, which are then compared in the LIA's attempt to shift them into phase.



The current system consists of two Skywatcher telescopes, a series of mirrors, lenses, and detectors. We meticulously tested the system for crude oils with more complex chemical structures and refined oils in well-lit and low-lit environments, receiving exceptional signal-to-noise ratios. In this presentation, I plan to cover the role of the LIA in this project and why it has been advantageous for our current progress and future goals.