Solid Electrolyte Oxygen Sensor for Aircraft Hazard Protection Applications

摘要

This program, Solid Electrolyte Oxygen Sensor for Aircraft Hazard Protection Applications, is concerned with the development of experimental oxygen sensing devices using solid electrolyte films. A large number of these devices have been assembled using rf-sputter deposited solid electrolyte films of 8 mole percent yttria-doped zirconia and studied to determine their physical properties and sensing performance. By varying the deposition conditions of both the solid electrolyte films and the electrodes on the films, optimal deposition conditions have been identified. These devices generate an EMF which is quite sensitive to the oxygen partial pressure in the ambient gas. Various devices have been tested extensively to determine the sensor response time to a change in the oxygen partial pressure, the stability of sensor output, the effect of temperature on the sensing performance, and sensor behavior in the presence of contaminant gases. Response times, for an increase in the oxygen partial pressure, of less than one minute are obtained with a typical sensor operated at 150 C. Stable performance over extended periods of time appears to be feasible based on the results of limited lifetime testing. In the presence of contaminant gases, sensor output is altered. In some cases (propane), exposure to the contaminant gas enhances sensor performance. In no case is the sensing performance destroyed by exposure to the contaminants used in this program.