New Wireless Sensors for Diagnostics Under Harsh Environments

There is an acute need for robust sensors and sensor systems capable of operation in harsh environments. In particular, high temperature passive wireless surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensors are highly desirable for improving safety and efficiency in aviation and space vehicles. Such sensors are used for the detection of fuel leaks in engines, fire in its initial stages, fuel flow modulation and control and monitoring, and in-flight NDE and diagnostics of vehicles. In this project, we will 1) develop a relatively new crystal material suitable for high-temperature SAWs; 2) design SAW sensors and investigate extremely high temperature operation (up to 1000oC) of the SAW sensor embodiments; 3) Integrate the SAW and antenna onto the wafer such that there are no external connections. This will form a fully integrated sensor antenna device without any external bonds or soldering. Phase I will include substantial materials development and characterization for uniformity and repeatability in SAWs. Prototype SAW designs will be developed and high-temperature characteristics evaluated. Phase II will develop a fully integrated sensor antenna and upscale the crystal growth for 3-4in SAW wafers. Probability for Phase III commercialization of both the wireless SAW sensors and SAW wafers is high. More »