Form 9.B Project Summary

Chron: 971957

Proposal Number: 01.07-8777

Project Title: LWIR Microthermopile Aircraft Engine Monitor

Technical Abstract (Limit 200 words)

NASA has a need for integrated sensors and controls utilizing Micro Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS). Of particular interest is the quantification of OH, NOx, CH, CN, formaldehyde, free radicals, and small molecules in aircraft exhaust. Current technology based on Laser Induced Fluorescence (LIF) is only capable of identifying one species at a time and in a single direction. An on board exhaust monitor capable of quantifying multiple species, in multi-directions, with full IR spectra would enable real time determinations of engine health and enable feedback control.

In ongoing Phase II SBIR programs with NASA, Ion Optics has developed a spectrometer-on-a-chip which provides mid-wavelength infrared spectroscopic gas analysis in a lightweight, miniaturized, and vibration resistant system. To address NASA's needs we propose to adapt our spectrometer technology to JPL's high performance uncooled linear MEMS detector arrays, and an advanced low-noise readout multiplexer to enable long-wavelength IR (8-14mm) analysis of aircraft exhaust. The integration of these three advances will provide a high ensitivity, low power consumption instrument which is small enough for onboard propulsion monitoring and control. Ongoing projects have demonstrated technical feasibility of these three key components and set the stage for development, integration, and validation of an onboard monitoring system.

Potential Commercial Applications (Limit 200 words)

A small, lightweight, and rugged sensor capable of identifying and quantifying chemical species in the long wavelength regions of the infrared would have widespread commercial appeal. Such a sensor system could be immediately applied to compliance monitoring on commercial aircraft. Additional applications include adaptation to on board analysis of automobile exhaust, smoke stack monitoring, and chemical process control.

Name and Address of Principal Investigator (Name,

Organization Name, Mail Address, City/State/Zip)

Dr. Edward Johnson

Ion Optics

411 Waverley Oaks Rd. Suite 144

Waltham , MA 02154

Name and Address of Offeror (Firm Name, Mail Address,

City/State/Zip)

Mr. Peter Loges

Ion Optics, Inc.

411 Waverley Oaks Rd. Suite 144

Waltham , MA 02154