| Embedded Waveguide Sensors in Polymer Membranes Reference Number(s)
Laboratory: 20
DOE reference no.(s): 105,107 Abstract These waveguide sensors are applicable to any polymer-based system for diagnostics and control. PEM fuel cells utilize a polymer membrane as the separation membrane of the fuel cell. Embedding sensory capabilities directly into the membrane will enable more detailed understanding of the process kinetics and lead to optimized performance. Various types of sensors embedded in the polymer membrane will be described, other areas of applicability for this technology might include micro-fluidic systems, semi-conductor technologies, and bio-technologies including sensors embedded in human prostheses. Application(s) of the Technology These Embedded Waveguide Sensors can be utilized for advanced fuel cell controls and diagnostic sensor systems. Other applications included, but are not limited to, read-out and diagnostic sensors for micro-fluidic assay systems such as chemical/biological weapon sensors, DNA hybridization systems, and water monitors for homeland security applications. Main Advantages of Invention Embedded waveguides provide a platform which provides for measuring various process parameters, improved system operation, increased number of sensors available, lower cost, and less complexity issues. Also, we will have the ability to map these parameters via a network of sensors enabled by the waveguides. There are many other applications and benefits of embedded waveguides including sensor networks for other applications and optical information interconnections in integrated circuits or other micro-mechanical and fluid systems. Embedded sensors within complex systems are necessary to optimize system performance. Thus, fuel cell systems in particular should realize increased power density and increased operational lifetime by including embedded diagnostic and control sensors enabled by embedded waveguides. Status/Availability Available both Exclusively and Non Exclusively Patents & Applications Posting Date: Monday, Feb 6 2006 Contact Mark E Reeves
Oak Ridge National Laboratory
P.O. Box 2008
Building /4500N, Room 145
Mailstop 6196
Oak Ridge, TN 37831
(865) 576-2577
reevesme@ornl.gov | 
