Extreme Environment SiC Wireless Sensor Suite for Nuclear Thermal Propulsion Engines, Phase I

In this program, APEI, Inc. will build on successful demonstrations of SiC-based wireless transmitter designs in high temperature and high mechanical load environments to develop silicon carbide (SiC) based integrated wireless sensor-transmitter suites for extreme temperature operation in nuclear thermal propulsion (NTP) engines. These sensor suites will allow for thereal-time monitoring of critical engine components, reducing the risk of catastrophic failure and decreasing the inherent risk associated with NTP operation. Arkansas Power Electronics International, Inc. (APEI, Inc.) will prove the feasibility of the concept and design through the successful demonstration of a prototype SiC wireless sensor suite operating in excess of 450 ^oC at the conclusion of Phase I. More »