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Real-Time Gas Composition Analyzers for On-Line Process Control--Nanomaterials Research Corporation, 2620 Trade Center Avenue, Longmont, CO 80503-7551; 303-702-1672
Dr. Chuanjing Xu, Principal Investigator
Ms. Molly M. W. Kostelecky, Business Official
DOE Grant No. DE-FG03-99ER82843
Amount: $100,000
Instruments are needed to increase the energy efficiency and optimum operation of processes in the steel, aluminum, metal casting, glass, and chemical industries. Real-time, on-line, gas composition analyzers would be a candidate technology, but state-of-the-art gas analyzers are very expensive, poor in reliability, and not suitable for demanding environments. This project will develop gas composition analyzers that cost almost 100-fold less and offer reliable, stable, and rapid response in demanding environments. The approach is to develop miniature gas composition sensors from proprietary materials that can withstand demanding environments. Phase I will produce prototype sensors, characterize them, and test them to establish the proof-of-concept.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: Reliable, real-time gas composition analyzers should save over $250 million per year in energy costs in the steel, aluminum, metal casting, glass, and chemical industries. They can also increase product yield and prevent pollution. As an illustration, it is estimated that in the U.S. glass industry alone, product yields can be increased by over $100 million per year with real-time analyzers.