Fiber-Optic Sensor with Simultaneous Temperature, Pressure, and Chemical Sensing Capabilities

78477 A key to improving energy efficiency in the chemical and petrochemical industries is the ability to monitor such in situ parameters as the temperature, pressure, and chemical composition of the process stream under harsh and extreme conditions. Instruments with the required capabilities and/or robustness currently either do not exist or are inadequate. This project will develop a fiber-optic sensor that combines temperature, pressure, and chemical sensing capabilities into a single strand of sapphire fiber, using a novel measurement strategy. The integration of the three measurement capabilities into a single probe minimizes both the cost and intrusiveness of the device. In Phase I, data will be taken to verify the projected performance characteristics of the three sensors separately. Also, the feasibility of fabricating a probe containing all three sensing elements, using the laser heated pedestal growth technique, will be demonstrated. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The multifunctional fiber-optic sensor should be suitable for the on-line monitoring of process streams in the chemical and petrochemical industries. In certain situations, such as microwave and plasma processing, viable alternatives are nonexistent. Parts of the sensor package should also have commercial value in the aerospace industry, in the processing of electronic materials, and in environmental monitoring.