Rapid Response Sensors for Advanced Control Technologies

The proposed program focuses on developing a novel, low-cost sensor that is ultra-sensitive to emissions from fuel combustors. Commercially available sensors exhibit slow response and poor sensitivity and not suited for dynamic engine control technologies. Nanomaterials Research Corporation (NRC) will develop and demonstrate sensors based on nanostructured materials that are stable, ultra-sensitive and near-instantaneous in response to composition variations. The Phase I effort will focus on oxygen as analyte. Phase I will establish the proof-of-concept, Phase II will optimize and field test the sensor with lead customers, and Phase III will commercialize the sensor to niche markets. Anticipated Benefits: The military will benefit from reduced cost, highly reliable sensors for advanced adaptive control technology. Commercial applications include controlling emissions and enhancing fuel efficiency of natural gas engines, diesel based engines, and of stationary combustion units such as furnaces and kilns. Such sensors would be significant value to process control industry for enhanced energy efficiencies and process selectivities.