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Harsh-Environment, Fiber-Optic, Sensing System for SOFC Applications--Luna Innovations, Inc., 2851 Commerce Street, Blacksburg, VA  24060-6657; 540-953-4274, www.lunainnovations.com
Ms. Kelly Stinson-Bagby, Principal Investigator, bagbyk@lunainnovations.com 
Ms. Garnett S. Linkous, Business Official, linkousg@lunainnovations.com 
DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-03ER83697  $99,998

The commercialization of Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) technology will enable high efficiency, low pollution, power generation alternatives for the near future.  Predicting the performance and reliability behavior of a fuel cell under operating conditions requires the characterization of the materials in the fuel cell and stack.  However, current state-of-the-art diagnostic monitoring and sensing systems for SOFC applications have limited interrogation methods.  This project will develop novel fiber-optic, harsh-environment, sensing capabilities that are integrated into SOFC technology for in situ diagnostic characterization.  In Phase I, oxide coatings for fiber ruggidization in reducing environments at 600ºC to 1000ºC will be produced to advance state-of-the-art sensing capabilities

Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by awardee:  Harsh-environment monitoring capabilities should find application in solid state power generation, turbine engine power generation, commercial and military aircraft propulsion, marine gas turbines, space-based and ground nuclear power generation, and automobiles.