Unsteady Heat Transfer Sensors based on Thermographic Phosphors

The proposed SBIR research targets the development of a state-of the-art- optical heat transfer sensor for unsteady measurement in modern turbomachinery. The operational principal of the sensor is based on the UV-induced fluoresence emission of rare-earth ion doped thermographic phosphors (TGP). With a multidimensional thermal imaging system, the sensor permits simultaneous characterization of planar mapping of transient surface temperature and local heat transfer. The non-intrusive nature of the proposed sensor technology makes it far superior to the existing thin-film gauges and thus significantly reduces the complexity of the test rigs. The feature is particularly attractive to resolve unsteady phenomena in rotating machinery. The TGP-baded system inherits rapid response-time, superb spatial resolution, and high-temperature (near engine conditions) capability. All the aforementioned features more than fulfill the specigfications required by the DoD SBIR solicitation. Research performed during the proposed Phase I study will result in critical design information for the Phase II effort for actual sensor fabrication.