Microsensors and Sensor Microsystems - Fiber Optic Chemical Sensor

Micromirror chemical sensors are constructed by coating the end of an optical fiber waveguide with a chemically-sensitive film that changes reflectivity upon exposure to a chemical of interest. This device enables remote monitoring of chemical concentration, operates in electrically-noisy environments, and does not constitute an ignition hazard. Applications include monitoring hydrogen levels in transformer oil to indicate breakdown and detecting oxidizing compounds in the Martian soil and atmosphere.