Fire Detection by Surface Acoustic Wave Chemical Sensor Systems
Abstract
Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) Chemical Sensor systems have been developed to detect and identify fire threats for shipboard materials. The SAW sensor system is an electronic device that employs an array of SAW devices as a "nose" for chemical vapor detection. Each SAW device in an array is coated with a different polymeric material that selectively absorbs different chemical vapors. Chemical vapors released by thermal decomposition of fire fields (e.g. insulation on electrical cable and thermal insulation foam) provide fingerprint patterns from the sensor array that allow identification of the source material associated with a flaming fire, smoldering fire or the threat of a fire (prior to release of smoke). A neural network routine that was trained with over 500 patterns from fire vapor tests correctly identified the source material for all fire threats tested and distinguished them from possible interference (e.g. AFFF and hydraulic fluid). The SAW sensor system has the potential to give an early warning prior to a flaming fire and, unlike a conventional fire detector in heavy smoke, identify the primary source material in the fire. This information will greatly assist in determining appropriate steps to take in preventing a flaming fire developing from smoldering material, and in taking the proper action in fighting flaming fires. In addition, the SAW sensor system can be used as a multitasking detector searching simultaneously for vapors associated with fires or potential fires, and hazardous chemical vapors from spills, leaks or chemical agent attack. Sensor responses are reversible, so an area exposed to toxic fumes can be monitored in real times as a decontaminating procedure progresses to a safe condition for personnel to enter the area.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 10, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA412628
Entities
People
- David L. Venezky
- Mark R. Anderson
- R. A. Mcgill
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory