The CSIRO Ocean Carbon Observation team is responsible for measuring the effect of anthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions on the carbon chemistry system of Australian coastal waters and the Southern Ocean as part of the IMOS Ocean Acidification Mooring, IMOS BGC Sampling, and IMOS-SOOP programs. For the characterisation of the marine carbon chemistry system, we use proven pCO2 and pH sensor technology on mooring platforms and ship-based underway facilities, whereas Dissolved Inorganic Carbon (DIC) and Total Alkalinity (TA) can only be obtained through in-situ bottle sampling and subsequent laboratory analysis.
This presentation gives a brief overview of the current best practices for measuring these parameters and discusses new sensor developments for (autonomous) DIC measurements. We will also demonstrate improved methodologies for measuring pCO2, with the aim not only to improve accuracy, but also to decrease operational costs. For this we intend to develop a compact sensor package that can be used on various platforms, including unmanned surface vehicles, and is fit for purpose to include in CCS and mCDR monitoring and verification.