SBIR Phase I: Dual Sensor for Continuous Monitoring of Total Sulfur in Natural Gas

This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project addresses the development of Sensors wherein the adsorption of trace sulfur contaminants in natural gas will be monitored at the surface of the sensor. The system will be optimized to measure total sulfur species such as dimethyl sulfide (DMS) in natural gas, to aide in the control of desulfurization systems used in high temperature fuel cells. While natural gas is a readily available fuel to generate electricity with fuel cells, the traces of sulfur compounds must be removed first to prevent electrode poisoning and fouling. The proposed mixed metal oxide sulfur sensor will improve the reliability and service life for high temperature solid oxide and molten carbonate fuel cells used for stationary power. The unique features for selectively adsorbing/desorbing interfering gases make this sensor applicable to a wide variety of other sensing needs. The metal oxide dual sensors may be suitable for operating environments where there are wide changes in humidity, temperature and mechanical stress.