InTEnSO is a new project formed by a multidisciplinary team of the Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV), formed by members of the Institute of Chemical Technology (ITQ), which provide their knowledge on the synthesis of inorganic materials, and members of the Photonics Research Labs (PRL) group, belonging to the Institute of Telecommunications and Multimedia Applications (iTEAM), which provide their knowledge in the field of photonics and signal processing.

The main purpose of this project is to expand the measurement ability and industrial applicability of current fiber optic sensors. InTenSO project aims to develop an innovative coating that provides complete compatibility to work in extreme conditions. Such coating will ensure improved chemical and mechanical resistance and adequate flexibility to facilitate the implementation of the temperature sensors in harsh operative conditions processes where the accessibility is restricted. The final product will be able to safely work in explosive atmosphere and will be fully compatible with high level radiofrequency environment.

Reliable high temperature measurement is vital to ensure the success of a wide range of industrial processes. “Highly technological sectors such as aerospace, nuclear fuel production, essential nuclear safety tests and electric cars manufacture, or heavy industries including the production of refractory metals (silicon carbide, carbon/carbon composite materials, …), iron, steel, glass and ceramics are some examples of industries that perform operations in extreme conditions. They require advanced technologies for high quality/reliability temperature measurement in harsh environments”, highlights Professor Salvador Sales, researcher in charge of the project within iTEAM.

The use of fiber optic-based sensors that use light instead of electricity, and standard optical fiber instead of copper cable allows to measure temperatures with high quality/reliability in environments that operate in very extreme conditions.