A Passive Optical Carbon-Monoxide, Combustion Exhaust, and Temperature Sensor (POCCETS) for Turbine Engine Gas Paths

In-situ measurements of CO and temperature are required to monitor and control completeness of combustion in modern turbine engines. We propose the Phase II development of an innovative gas path sensor technology for spatially resolved measurements of the key combustion parameters: temperature, CO concentration, H2O concentration, and CO2 concentration. Passive optical probes are arrayed to collect the emitted radiation over different views of the hot gas path. Concentrations and temperatures are determined by spectral analysis of the emitted radiation and spatial profiles are determined by comparing the values for differing views. This approach provides a general-purpose real-time temperature and chemical species sensing capability. Probes can be inserted in the combustor, at the turbine inlet, in the augmenter, or at the engine exit with application as an engine development diagnostic tool, and ultimately, as a sensor for real-time active control. The sensor feasibility has already been demonstrated in the Phase I research. In Phase II, a prototype sensor will be developed and used for diagnosing completeness of combustion and temperature in a test combustor. Phase III products will include test stand diagnostic instrumentation and on-engine sensors.