APPLIED NANOTECH, INC. — Department of Energy SBIR Phase I: One of the key pieces of hydrogen fueling stations and hydrogen fuel vehicles are dependab

Description

One of the key pieces of hydrogen fueling stations and hydrogen fuel vehicles are dependable detectors that are needed to ensure safe handling and use of hydrogen within transportation infrastructure. Hydrogen is a colorless and odorless gas, and its flame is virtually invisible in daylight. We propose a robust, reliable detector technology based on the tuning fork micro-resonance effect that can accurately and continuously monitor and measure hydrogen concentration levels and indicate the presence of a leak in hydrogen dispenser. We propose a leak detector technology that has the following advantages over other technologies: Almost instant ( & lt;1 sec) response and recovery times, independent of hydrogen concentration, 0.25% H2 detection limit, detector operates in any environment, air or nitrogen, linear sensitivity range up to 100% H2 in air/N2/O2 (H2 UEL is 75%), no chemical reactions are involved no detector poisoning or degradation, excellent repeatability, expected sensor lifetime exceeding 10 yrs, calibration not more often than every 1 or 2 years, low sensor cost. During Phase I, we plan to bring the sensor operation parameters in compliance with the DoE guidelines for H2 sensor technologies. More specifically, we will focus on sensor redesign to decrease the sensor head footprint and decrease the thermostat power consumption; We will demonstrate that the sensor operates in the temperature range of -30C to +80C having the response time under 1 sec. The Phase I scope will also include testing the sensor over a range of different environmental parameters. A fully functional sensor prototype capable of integrating into a dispenser assembly will be delivered for DoE evaluation during Phase II. The technology platform developed in this program can be expanded beyond hydrogen leak detection. Applications include natural gas leak detection in residential buildings, industrial sites, and gas pipelines.