Electrochemical Detection of Salts Using MOF-Composite Electrodes for Space Applications

The NASA Science Mission Directorate aims to develop in situ sensors capable of detecting salts and minerals on various celestial bodies such as Mars and ocean worlds. These sensors must meet specific criteria, including enhanced sensitivity and resolution, reduced mass, power, and volume requirements, increased data transmission rates while maintaining scientific capability, resilience to the harsh conditions of space and planetary environments, and the ability to analyze and manipulate very small sample sizes or low concentrations of substances. In response to this requirement, InnoSense Corporation proposes the development of MOGE SENS™, an electrochemical sensor designed for salt detection. MOGE-SENS integrates seamlessly with metal organic framework-based electrodes, facilitating the interface with salt solutions and enabling rapid, simultaneous, and quantifiable detection of multiple salts. Phase I of the project involves the preparation, characterization, and evaluation of electrodes and MOGE-SENS devices to demonstrate compliance with NASA's specifications. Phase II activities include optimizing electrode and sensor performance, designing and fabricating electronic components and a MOGE SENS prototype, and assessing sensor performance in simulated space and planetary conditions.