Zero maintenance, oxygen sensor for jet fuel environments

PhotoSense proposes to develop a ruggedized luminescent oxygen sensor compatible with aircraft fuel tanks and other harsh, flammable environments. Diverse military and commercial applications exist for an oxygen sensor operating in jet fuel and other explosive vapors over a wide range of temperatures (-65F to 140F) and pressures (2psi to 16psi) while maintaining accuracy over 10 years of use. Ignition of fuel vapor in aircraft fuel tanks has numerous times resulted in loss of life and property in commercial and military aviation. The availability of an in-tank oxygen sensor would provide feedback for more efficient use of OBIGGS, saving fuel consumption by reducing ground time waiting for tank inerting, and in flight by activating OBIGGS only when required. The in-tank oxygen sensor would also provide immediate notification of an OBIGGS malfunction, indicating the need for service. The sensor elements used materials that have been qualified for fuel and aircraft applications. The Phase II development goal is for sensors operate over temperatures from -65F to +160F for 10 years while meeting accuracy specifications of +/-0.25% (over 5% to 15% O2). The Phase II deliverable includes a prototype in-tank oxygen sensor.