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.
