0510530 PIs: Qing-Ming Wang and Minking Chyu (University of Pittsburg) This project investigates the use of langasite (La3Ga5SiO14) acoustic wave sensors for high temperature gas sensing applications. The specific objectives in this research include: 1) fundamental study of langasite high temperature resonators, including resonator design, fabrication, and characterization of electromechanical properties and frequency-temperature dependence; and 2) development of high temperature gas sensors for in-situ and real time detection of O2 and NOx gases using langasite based high temperature acoustic wave resonators with metal oxide sensing layers. Two type of gas sensing thin film materials, namely Ga2O3 and WO3 will be employed as gas sensitive layers in the acoustic wave sensors. The ultimate goal of this research is to develop a fast, simple, inexpensive, and reliable resonator sensor-based instrument for detecting and monitoring O2 and NOx gases. The project also aims to increase student involvement in the ongoing research, within and outside the Mechanical Engineering Department, by promoting research transfer into classrooms, and simultaneously providing research experience opportunities for undergraduate students from underrepresented groups. Materials outcome from the research are also incorporated into an existing graduate level sensor technology course.
This is a project supported under the Sensor Initiative NSF 05-526.
