Quantum-Dot Paints for Surface Temperature Measurement

Temperature-sensitive paints (TSP) are a reliable way to monitor surface temperature without the need for physical contact with the test subject. Luminescent probes are incorporated into a surface treatment and the change in luminescent output with temperature is monitored optically or by spectroscopic means. TSPs are used in the aeronautics and astronautics industry to understand temperature gradients to maximize material integrity and design geometry of crafts. The purpose of this Phase I proposal is to design a new temperature-sensitive paint for use on test subjects in wind tunnels. NanoSonic, Inc will design a temperature sensitive paint containing zinc sulfide capped cadmium selenide, (CdSe)ZnS, quantum-dots as the luminescent temperature probe that can be spray applied to the test subject. Recently, it was found that (CdSe)ZnS fluorescent intensity strongly depended on temperature, making them ideal for temperature probes. NanoSonic proposes to utilize novel temperature resistant sulfone-based polymers as the binder matrix in the TSP. In addition, NanoSonic will investigate the effects annealing will have on fluorescence intensity and temperature response of the temperature-sensitive paint. In this proposed work, NanoSonic will partner with Virginia Tech Department of Chemistry to fully characterize the temperature response of the TSP through fluorescence spectroscopy.