SBIR-STTR Award

The technical objective is to demonstrate the feasibility of using microwave open-ended resonators for quantifying the amount of moisture in liquids in-situ, particularly hydraulic fluids. Specifically, we seek to demonstrate the method's capabilities to measure moisture content down to a level of 100 parts/million or better. The -research will focus on questions concerning the design and use of compact, nonobstructive resonators which can be portable or permanently mounted in stream lines. Major attention will be given to determine; factors which may effect the calibration of the resonators, and on practical methods of compensating for such factors.

During phase i we demonstrated feasibility of measuring less than 50 ppm up to 1000 ppm moisture in hydraulic fluids by using an innovative and highly sensitive microwave resonator sensor unique to kdc. Research efforts in phase ii will be directed at improving sensor design and performance when the sensor is integrated into a test cell configuration. The end objective will be to achieve a working engineering prototype instrument capable of measuring moisture at levels below 50 ppm and with 10 ppm resolution in hydraulic oils conforming to mil-h-83282, mil-f-17111b, mil-h-5606, and mil-h-46170b i & ii. The engineering prototype instrument will be suitable for beta testing at both government and commercial facilities handling hydraulic fluids.