An Inexpensive, Absorption-Based Optical Oxygen Detector for Use in Aircraft Fuel Tanks

To prevent unwanted fuel ignition and possible explosion, it is critical to maintain the oxygen content in the headspace of fuel tanks to concentrations in the 9 to 12 percent by volume. Existing real-time oxygen sensors either cannot withstand the harsh JP-8 liquid/vapor environment or the lower temperature extremes experienced by aircraft or are too expensive and too bulky. Lynntech proposes to develop an inexpensive, reliable, lightweight, absorption-based oxygen sensor to be used for the real-time detection of oxygen levels in the headspace of aircraft fuel tanks. The proposed sensor will operate at a wavelength where hydrocarbon vapors are transparent, will be compatible with the fuel and fuel vapors, will be easily flight qualified, and will not interfere with electrical or electronic devices. The proposed sensor also does not contain sensing polymers or electrolytes, which do not perform properly at low temperatures. Phase I will demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed sensor. Phase II will develop, demonstrate, and deliver a prototype oxygen detection system (fuel tank sensor and cockpit display) suitable for thorough field-testing and commercialization.