5
Durable
Fiber-Optic Temperature Sensor for Coal Gasifiers--MicroMaterials, Inc.,
6604
Harney Road, Suite F, Tampa, FL 33610; 813-627-0474
Dr.
Rex A. Lee, Ph.D., Principal Investigator, micromaterials@yahoo.com
Dr.
Rex A. Lee, Ph.D., Business Official, Micromaterials@yahoo.com
DOE
Grant No. DE-FG02-02ER86144
Amount:
$100,000
Research
Institution
Tampa,
FL
The
efficient operation of coal gasifiers, a leading alternate energy technology,
requires continuous temperature monitoring at several strategic locations within
the reactor. However, the extreme
temperature, pressure, and corrosiveness of the gasifier atmosphere makes this a
difficult task, and existing temperature sensors are grossly inadequate for this
application. This project will
develop a fiber-optic temperature sensor with a monolithic crystalline
construction. The sensor will be
protected by a ceramic yttrium aluminum garnet sheath.
In Phase I, the response and stability of a probe consisting of a doubly
doped crystalline yttrium aluminum garnet will be characterized.
The corrosion of the sheath material by constituents found in gasifiers
will be investigated.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: A durable fiber-optic temperature sensor with high temperature capability should find applications not only in coal-gasifier plants but also in glass and paper industries.