Extreme Environment Control Sensors

79616S No method currently exists for the direct monitoring of reactor core temperature and pressure, especially for planned Generation IV nuclear reactors to be fielded by 2030. These reactors will achieve core temperatures of 1000¿C and high core irradiation levels. In addition, uncertainty in current sensors caused by calibration changes, sensor drift, leaks and/or time response, prevents existing reactors from operating at peak efficiencies. The proposed work will be based on groundbreaking research and will develop radiation-hardened fiber optic sensors for this application. Phase I will: (1) design and construct fiber optic multiplexed pressure and temperature sensors for 1000¿C operation; (2) modify the sensor, read-out electronics, and software algorithms for prognostics and diagnostics for sensor health monitoring capabilities and potential recalibration in situ; (3) conduct operational and failure testing; and (4) determine customer requirements, market size, and entry paths. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The high-temperature, radiation-hardened sensors should have application not only to Gen-IV fission reactors, but also to commercial nuclear and conventional power plants. Implementing these systems would allow more accurate control of energy production, thereby increasing efficiency, reducing green house gas production, improving safety, and reducing the overall cost of power plant sensor suites.