Fiber Optic, Single-Point Sensors for High-Temperture Power Turbine Applications

70018 This project will develop pressure and temperature sensors for operation in combustion flow environments up to 1400¿C, 1000 psi, and at frequencies over 150 kHz. Novel fiber-optically interrogated transducers will be developed based on single and poly-crystalline metal oxide ceramics and other materials that have exceptionally high thermal stability, corrosion resistance, and excellent optical properties. Transducers will be intrinsically temperature compensated by taking advantage of the material¿s thermal properties. Light propagation through high-temperature regions will be accomplished using novel optical transmission methods. The readout system will be a high-speed signal conditioning system. Phase I has four objectives: (1) advance the state-of-the-art in high-temperature transducers, (2) advance the state-of-the-art in fiber durability, (3) enable novel turbine control and monitoring methodologies, and (4) establish a strategic commercialization strategy. These objectives will be achieved by designing ceramic pressure and temperature transducers, constructing and testing prototype transducers, and testing and evaluating ruggedized fibers. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: High-temperature pressure and temperature transducers should have application to turbine engine power generation, commercial and military aircraft propulsion, marine gas turbines, and the automotive industry.