Towards a novel optical trace oxygen sensor for commerical use

This paper presents the development of a novel luminescence-based trace oxygen sensor that will eventually lead to the production of a commercial sensor for use in gaseous sensing applications. The proprietary sensing formulation provides the means of a robust and stable sensor using a metalloporphyrin complex as the luminescent indicator that is efficiently quenched by oxygen. The spectroscopic properties of the oxygen sensitive layer have been carried out and appropriate optical components and electronics sourced and built into a low cost, compact, miniaturized device. This novel oxygen sensor operates in the 0-10,000 parts per million (ppm) range and offers an alternative to traditional trace oxygen sensors, such as galvanic electrochemical, zirconia and other luminescence-based ppm sensors.