Microwave Radiometer for Remote Temperature Measurement in Hostile Industrial Environments

75848 Remote temperature measurement in industrial heating applications is usually accomplished through the use of optical or infrared sensors. However, these sensors do not work effectively in applications that produce smoke or other particulate matter that obscures the object being heated. This project will develop a remote temperature sensing instrument using microwaves, which are not affected by particulates that disable infrared and optical sensors. The price of the instrument will be comparable to current remote temperature sensing technologies. Phase I will construct and test a prototype remote temperature measurement instrument with full functionality. Experimental data from this prototype will be combined with an exploratory design to set the direction for Phase II. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The new remote temperature sensor should allow tighter control in energy-intensive processes in a wide variety of industries, leading to substantial energy savings.