Novel Microsensor for Measuring Oxygen, Water and Carbon Dioxide in the Spacecraft, Phase I

A microsensor cell with interdigitated micron-size three electrode structure cell of thin film platinum sensing and counter electrodes and platinum pseudo or silver quasi reference electrodes deposited on silicon dioxide over silicon will be fabricated. A unique thin film composite polymer membrane electrolyte with high ionic conductivity and wide voltage window and hydrophobic property will be prepared and characterized and coated on the electrodes of the cell. The prototype sensor will be assembled in a suitable container covered with thin film PTFE membrane and feasibility demonstrated for sensing oxygen, water vapor and carbon dioxide.

Long life and low cost sensors with multi-gas/vapor sensing capability have potential application for detecting toxic vapors at the Department of Energy Hazard Waste Sites and EPA applications for toxic gases. These sensors have the potential for use in monitoring toxic and polluting gases such as SO2, NOx and CO2 at power plants and industrial boilers using fossil fuels. They find use detecting CO and volatile organic compounds(VOCs)for Indoor Air Quality monitoring homes and buildings.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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