Wireless Electrochemical ClO2 Monitor for Decontamination Operations

Recognizing the importance of ClO2 in disinfection and decontamination operations, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had identified the need for portable, accurate and field-rugged chlorine dioxide (ClO2) monitors for use in monitoring building decontamination operations. To address the EPA's concern and need, this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II project will continue the developmental work started in Phase I to design, develop and demonstrate a simple-to-operate and advanced, novel electrochemical ClO2 micro sensor (sensor cell with integrated potentiostatic control and signal-processing circuit) and demonstrate its successful operation with wireless data transmission. The proposed micro sensor will be rapid (less than 30 seconds for 90% of full response, T90), accurate, selective and capable of measuring 0 to 3000 ppm ClO2 in real-time with a detection limit of 2 ppb. The unique and advanced sensing technology is based on integrated solid polymer proton conducting electrolytes and thick-film electrode (sputtered or screen printed on alumina substrates) technology. The proposed micro sensor will be configured for continuous unattended or handheld operation and it will be fully integrated with wireless data transmission and configured into a compact and lightweight monitor. Commercial Applications: An accurate, portable and reliable ClO2 monitoring device capable of wireless data transmission could find a broad commercial use. The proposed handheld and inexpensive ($100 to manufacture in quantities greater than 10,000 units) electrochemical ClO2 monitor that is capable of monitoring ClO2 levels in real-time with a detection limit of 2 ppb could be used for applications intended to control microbiological growth in a number different industries, such as the dairy industry, the beverage industry, the pulp and paper industry, the fruit and vegetable industries, various canning plants, the poultry industry, the beef processing industry and miscellaneous food processing applications. In addition to the applications mentioned above, the proposed ClO2 monitor could also be used with chlorine dioxide generators to accurately control concentration of generated ClO2.