Microsensor Array for Hypergolic Chemical Leak Monitoring

The objective of this research is the development of a hypergolic fuel and oxidizer sensor system for use in missile transport/launch canisters. Reliable hypergolic fuel/oxidizer leak detection is critical to the Ballistic Missile Defense System for operator safety and system operational readiness. A smart sensor system like the one under development in this program will provide the end-user with intelligent output regarding the presence and significance of a leak so that proper corrective action can be taken. A low power, modular system with long sensor element life will result in a low maintenance system design for minimum logistical footprint. The Phase I development effort resulted in the successful operation of sensors for hypergolic fuel and oxidizer detection. The proposed Phase II development effort will focus first on demonstration of optimized hypergolic sensors for the detection of fuel/oxidizer leaks and the development of intelligent alarm algorithms based on sensor response characteristics. Upon successful demonstration of sensor capabilities, MEI will undertake the design and fabrication of Phase II Prototype hardware and the program will culminate in demonstration testing of the prototype for MDA and missile systems integrators.