Absorption Dependent Intensity Detector for Chlorophyll 

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project description

Spectrophotometers utilize a range of select wavelengths that allow them to detect the presence of certain chemicals, compounds, or elements dissolved in aqueous solutions that we will refer to as impurities. Spectrophotometers exploit the absorption and transmission profiles of such impurities to show a distinct difference in the intensity of the incident light versus the received light, after passing through a sample containing the impurity. We developed a system that engages this concept to detect Chlorophyll A and Chlorophyll B impurities present in a water sample. The primary physical property that will be used to determine the presence and quantities of chlorophyll impurities will be the Lambert-Beer Law, which highlights the ability to calculate the concentration of a substance when both input and output intensities are known in adjunction with the chemical absorption coefficient. The design’s ability to detect chlorophyll concentrations will allow users to detect the amount of photosynthetic material present in just about any organic material. Indicators of photosynthetic capabilities can be used to better understand organic materials and their macroscale impact on surrounding environments.

James Aurilio (PSE)

James Aurilio is a Photonic Science and Engineering (PSE) major, on track to graduate from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelors of Science in Photonic Science and Engineering (BSPSE) degree in May of 2022. He received a slot to perform in the United States Air Force as a Combat Systems Officer. After graduation, he will go to Naval Air Station Pensacola to begin his training after commissioning as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Air Force later in May.

James Brutus (PSE) 

James Brutus is a Photonic Science and Engineering (PSE) major, on track to graduate from the University of Central Florida with his Bachelors of Sciences in May of 2022. He will be commissioning as a Second Lieutenant in the Space Force with a Developmental Engineering career specialty code. He also received a slot to pursue a Master’s of Sciences degree in Photonics Sciences at the University of Central Florida under a partnership with the Air Force Institute of Technology.

Logan Farley (ECE)

Logan Farley is an Electrical Engineering (EEL) major student, on track to graduate from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor’s of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) degree in May of 2022. He has received a job as a developmental engineer for the United States Air Force at Wright Patterson Air Force Base as a second lieutenant in the United States Air Force. He will commission as a brand new second lieutenant later in May 2022 and start at his new base after receiving his order later this year.