Device and methods for temperature and humidity measurements using a nanocomposite film sensor
US9267853B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 23, 2013 |
| Grant date | Feb 23, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 23, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB82Y15/00
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Devices and methods are provided for a nanocomposite having a phase change polymer matrix and conductive nanoparticles to provide greatly enhanced responsivity to temperature and/or humidity. A sensing film includes carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and the polymer. Operation near the transition temperature increases the TCR by over an order of magnitude, thus providing a new platform for devices such as IR sensors, bolometers and imaging elements, MEMS devices, compensating or uncompensated circuit elements and other electronic devices. Nanocomposite films may be under about one micron thick, and coatings, constant environment chambers or mounts, and other engineered improvements and variations may be provided to further enhance the response, range, response times or sensitivity of the film-based devices. One embodiment employs a nanocomposite film under one micron in thickness to operate as an uncooled but highly sensitive infrared bolometer under ambient conditions.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.