Development of Advanced Sensors

Abstract

There are not many key technologies left in which Europe is leading but the field of sensor and microsystem technologies is still a European domain. This is stressed in the introduction of the present paper and it is pointed out that joint efforts are needed to maintain the European lead in this field.

The work reported summarizes research and development efforts carried out within the JOULE 1-Project No. CT 900056 on “Advanced Sensors”. Work is reported on flow rate metering using modern optical and thermal techniques, as well as an ultrasonic measuring method. Furthermore, the development and completion of a Coriolis mass flow meter for granular material is described together with measuring results that demonstrate its correct functioning. Work on the miniaturisation of phase-Doppler anemometers is summarized, together with optical measuring techniques applicable for concentration measurements in combustion systems. The report also includes a summary of development work on a humidity sensor, based on zinc oxide doped with lithium in order to get an extremely good response to humidity. Unique test equipment is presented which was employed in the present study. Suggestions for further developments are made.