Harsh Environment Sensor Packaging (Sensor Pack)

While a variety of advanced fiber optic sensors have been developed, many of these are not packaged for use in the harsh environments associated with power generation equipment. What is needed is universal sensor packaging that is compatible with a variety of sensor types and power generation systems, for use in harsh environments up to 1200°C. Pressure and temperature sensors compatible with these temperatures could actively monitor such processes as combustion in gas turbine power generators, combustion and cracking processes in the gasification of coal, and the creation of hydrogen using nuclear power. Previous work involved the development of packaging compatible with gas turbine power generators for temperatures up to 1000°C and pressures up to 34 atm. This project will develop technology to extend the operational temperature and pressure to 1200°C and 68 atm, respectively, and extend the packaging design for compatibility to coal gasification and combustion. During Phase I, a universal packaging design will be developed, and laboratory testing will be performed at temperatures up to 1200°C. During Phase II, the sensor designs will be optimized and tested in combustors and gasifiers. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: Clean coal technology, an obvious solution the Nation¿s energy need, requires new sensors to optimize process efficiencies and power production. A universal housing for fiber optic sensors in harsh environments would enable the commercialization of such sensors for coal power applications. Other markets for the technology would include gas turbines, nuclear power, aero-propulsion, and industrial processing