Detection of Battery Offgassing Using Chemiresisive Microsensor Arrays

Next Dimension Technologies proposes to develop and commercialize a chemiresistive-based sensor system that can detect offgassing of batteries that are commonly used in naval applications. The specific focus of the project will be to develop a sensor array with sub-ppm sensitivity towards gaseous analytes associated with standard battery operation and malfunction. The sensitivity and performance characteristics of the sensor array, which will consist of novel organometallic and nanoparticle composite films, will be evaluated against a series of representative battery offgassing vapors under various environmental conditions. In an optional extension period, the sensors will be tested and optimized using actual vapors generated from real batteries under various operating conditions. In a continuing Phase II effort, the company will design and build an integrated prototype, optimize the system for real world conditions, and evaluate the performance attributes and operational limits of the detection system in field tests.