Passive, Wireless Sensors for Turbine Engine Airfoils

This project will demonstrate the performance of prototype wireless, passive microwave acoustic temperature sensors in a high temperature lab environment, including demonstration of stable operation at 650oC (1200oF) for more than 250 hours. The proposed sensor technology is based on patented technology developed at the University of Maine, consisting of microwave acoustic devices fabricated using stable high temperature films and substrates, and licensed to Environetix Technologies Corporation for further product development and commercialization. The tasks performed during this Phase I effort will focus on (i) development of a wireless interrogation system and investigations of the associated antenna; (ii) comprehensive testing of the reliability, resolution, and accuracy of sensor prototypes; and (iii) maturation of strategies for sensor attachment and adhesion to turbine blade materials. The technology is being developed to target in situ monitoring directly on rotating turbine blades and at other strategic locations within a turbine engine in high temperature and high pressure environments. The proposed product is expected to respond to DoD needs, and be incorporated in future jet engine tests leading to routine application in ground-and-flight operations. BENEFIT: Advancing the technology readiness level (TRL) of Environetix’s proposed wireless, passive high temperature sensor technology will lead to future demonstration and deployment of multisensor arrays within turbine engines for on-ground and in-flight Integrated System Health Monitoring (ISHM). Environetix’s roadmap for development towards commercialization includes sensor technology demonstrations in jet engines in collaboration with potential partners including the Air National Guard, Vextec Inc., Pratt & Whitney, Rolls Royce, and General Electric. The technology also has potential applications in a variety of hypersonic vehicle, hot structures, power generation, automotive, and industrial process control environments.