Miniature Carbon Dioxide Sensor for Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems

Phase 1 has seen the development of a revolutionary new type of sensor for making carbon dioxide (CO2) measurements from small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and other platforms such as sounding balloons. The chemistry behind the new sensor has been proven, example sensors were fabricated, and the technique has shown its immunity to many interferences (notably humidity and temperature) which affect other carbon dioxide measurement technologies. Phase 2 will involve optimizing the new sensor in terms of sensitivity and manufacturability. Several field tests will be conducted with the new sensor, including baseline atmospheric CO2 measurements as well as CO2 flux measurements. Four sensors of the final design developed in Phase 2 will be delivered to NASA for use on small UAS platforms. Anticipated results include the completed development of a revolutionary new type of CO2 sensor for atmospheric research and its demonstration in the field prior to the conclusion of Phase 2. A medical variant is expected to quickly result in part from this work as well. It is also foreseen that several sensors for other gases may be developed based on this all-new measurement technology.