One of the potential innovative technologies presented to us as part of the Prepare for Space initiative are printed graphene sensors, which have already found many potential applications in non-space sectors.
The sensors have been tested for use in applications including:
- Structural health monitoring of structures made from composite materials
- Monitoring lithium-ion battery health
- Monitoring vital signs in people for healthcare, sports and training
Printed Sensor Technologies
With a thickness of < 50 microns for printed sensor and wiring, the technologies can be easily integrated into structures during manufacture or retrofitted later. The sensors can be used to monitor curing in composite parts before then being used to monitor structural health in service, offering a double solution.
The technologies can also be used with textiles, stretchable polymers and other flexible materials, opening up other applications, including those for personnel.
The sensors generate digital data capable of integration into artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms.
Graphene
The unique properties of graphene means that the 2D sensors can be designed to respond to environmental changes incredibly quickly. As the sensor environment changes, electrical properties are measured and analysed to provide high sensitivity feedback. The sensors can be designed to respond to specific stimuli in a controlled fashion, generating targeted data and information that may not be possible to obtain with existing solutions.
Find Out More
You can find out more about this technology and the company that developed it, here: https://www.esa-technology-broker.co.uk/technologies/printed-graphene-sensors
If you would like to explore this technology further for potential applications, please get in touch with us by emailing contactus@esa-technology-broker.co.uk.