High-Temperature Fiber Optic Sensors for Nuclear Power Applications

75442-Emerging designs for nuclear energy reactors will require reliable, high-temperature physical sensors that are not currently available. Present sensors have several major deficiencies: (1) they are not able to reliably survive the high temperature and radiation levels in certain areas of a nuclear power plant; (2) they typically require readout or conditioning electronics close to the sensors; and (3) they lack a mechanism to determine whether abnormal sensor readings are due to sensor failure or to real changes in measured quantities. This project will optimize and validate fiber-optic-based sensors for selected high-temperature applications in both existing and emerging nuclear reactor plants. The effort will be based on previous research in which radiation-hardened fiber optic sensors demonstrated survivability to 2x1011 Rad (gamma) and high temperature operation in excess of 800¿C. Phase I will design and construct fiber-optic pressure and temperature sensors optimized for high-temperature operation (> 800¿C) and high-radiation conditions, design a fiber optic readout system optimized for high-radiation-environment sensors, and conduct radiation and accident-condition testing. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The high-temperature, radiation-hardened sensors should allow for more accurate control, increased safety and security, and reduced overall costs for nuclear power plants. Another potential application is in the monitoring of nuclear spent-fuel-storage facilities.