NASA 1996 SBIR Phase I

PROJECT TITLE : Near-IR Diode Laser Sensors for Combustor Emissions Monitoring and Control (7117-080)

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)

Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) proposes to develop a compact, robust diode laser-based sensor for simultaneous measurements of CO, CO2, OH, H2O, and temperature in combustion gases. The sensor will use a custom-fabricated room-temperature diode laser operating near 1.575 æm in the near-IR and will join a suite of fiber-coupled sensors currently being developed and integrated with large scale combustor test facilities. Using previously demonstrated techniques, velocity, mass-flux, and momentum-flux capability will be included. The ultimate goal of this suite of sensors is the gasdynamic characterization of the inlet and exhaust flows of an aeropropulsion engine, allowing for real-time thrust determination and emissions control. In the Phase I portion of the program, surveys of the high temperature combustion gases will be conducted between 1.5 and 1.6 æm using a combination of FTIR, external-cavity diode laser, and distributed feedback diode laser. Two-line thermometry will be demonstrated on OH. These measurements will be used to determine the detection limits and accuracy of a prototype sensor configuration to be integrated with larger scale test facilities in the Phase II portion of the effort.

Significant commercial applications of the sensor suite for environmental, emissions, and process monitoring exists and have been realized through the development of a $7M commercial subsidiary. Direct commercial development of related sensors for aeropropulsion applications has already begun with AlliedSignal Engines and will continue in parallel through the Phase I and Phase II efforts. Discussions are continuing with Allison Engines Company and the Boeing Aircraft Company for further development. The proposed sensors will join this developing suite.

Dr. Mark G. Allen
Physical Sciences Inc.
20 New England Business Center
Andover, MA 01810-1077

Physical Sciences Inc.
20 New England Business Center
Andover, MA 01810-1077