Description: This Phase I research will result in a prototype high temperature pressure sensing cell based on the piezoresistive properties of platinum:tungsten alloys. The Eltron Research & Development sensor will be based on a flexible, circular nickel-alloy diaphragm onto which the sensor electrodes will be deposited via sputter coating. A series of insulating and conducting thin-films will comprise the pressure sensing element and an inert protective top-coat will protect the underlying materials from oxidizing/reducing environments and potential degradation from space weather. The prototype sensor will make exclusive use of high-temperature materials in order to facilitate continuous operation in the 5501200 deg. C range (significantly higher than currently available commercial pressure sensors). A technology readiness level (TRL) of 4 will be achieved by the conclusion of Phase I. Phase II research will package the prototype cell into appropriate hardware with all of the necessary on-board electronics for full transducer operation and proceed towards TRL 8.

Benefits: High-temperature pressure sensors have myriad potential applications. These include down-bore sensor packages for exploratory, oil and gas, and geothermal drilling, coal and biomass gasification, power generation, and a wide variety of biofuel and petrochemical refining processes. In addition to allowing for direct pressure measurement in ultra-high temperature processes without requiring undesirable compromises, the Eltron pressure sensor will also function as a drop-in replacement for existing pressure transducers.

In-situ resource utilization and extraterrestrial resource extraction are essential aspects of many near- and long-term NASA mission. Many technologies like oxygen extraction from Lunar Regolith and Martian soils can develop very high temperatures. Existing pressure sensors are not capable of operating continually at temperatures in excess of about 550 deg. C. During this research, Eltron will develop a new ultra-high temperature piezoresistive pressure sensor capable of continuous operation between 5501200 deg. C. In addition, the proposed sensor design incorporates only vacuum compatible materials and will not be impacted by operation in microgravity or reduced pressure atmospheres.