The objective of this proposal is to develop and commercialize a high reliability, high temperature smart neutron flux sensor for NASA Nuclear Thermal Propulsion (NTP) systems. Arkansas Power Electronics International (APEI) and International Femtoscience (FemtoSci) technology offers the following: (1) 600+ degC ambient operation of a full wireless smart sensor system (2) Extreme-environment electronics utilizing wide band gap integrated circuits and advanced magnetic components (3) CVD nano-diamond neutron flux sensor for near-core measurements, capable of operation to >700 degC (4) Harsh environment packaging technologies to ensure reliable operation at 700 degC (5) Radiation hard, high temperature electronics will offer high reliability nuclear propulsion instrumentation, as well as provide solutions for terrestrial nuclear power generation instrumentation.
