Development of a High Temperature Sensor Based on Transformation-Induced Resistivity Changes in Ordered Alloys

There is an increasing demand for high temperature sensors that operate accurately and reliably in extreme environments and they are vital in several aerospace applications. This aim was directly addressed by a novel idea where microstructural changes caused by phase transformation and the attendant physical property changes that can be easily measured is used as a sensor. In Phase I of this program, alloy compositions stable in turbine engine environment were used as the sensor material and selected physical property measurements were made. The microstructural parameters and the measured properties were correlated and a damage parameter was derived. Following this work, optimization of alloys and establishment of calibration curves will be carried out during the Phase II program. In addition, a sensor system package will be developed and tested in operating environments.