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.

InnoSense pioneers MOGE-SENS, a technology to detect salt traces for NASA's Mars exploration and ocean studies. Engineered with strict NASA constraints, MOGE-SENS promises compactness, durability, and energy efficiency. It offers high sensitivity, selectivity, reliability, and autonomous operation for real-time salt detection in space. This instrument is engineered to show promising prospects for in situ salt detection in challenging space environments. MOGE-SENS presents viable prospects in environmental toxic metal monitoring, automotive, and industrial safety sectors, aligning with environmental regulations. Its adaptability extends to gas sensing, and toxic industrial chemical monitoring.

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