Surface Acoustic Wave Sensors for Wireless Temperature Measurements above 1200 Degree Celsius

Abstract

High-temperature wireless sensing is crucial for monitoring combustion chambers and turbine stators in aeroengines, where surface temperatures can reach up to 1200 °C. Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) temperature sensors are an excellent choice for these measurements. However, at extreme temperatures, they face issues such as agglomeration and recrystallization of electrodes, leading to loss of conductivity and reduced quality factor, hindering effective wireless signal transmission. This study develops an LGS SAW sensor with a Pt-10%Rh/Zr/Pt-10%Rh/Zr/Pt-10%Rh/Zr multilayer composite electrode structure to address these challenges. We demonstrate that the sensor can achieve wireless temperature measurements from room temperature to 1200 °C with an accuracy of 1.59%. The composite electrodes excite a quasi-shear wave on the LGS substrate, maintaining a Q-factor of 3526 at room temperature, providing an initial assurance for the strength of the wireless interrogation echo signal. The sensor operates stably for 2.18 h at 1200 °C before adhesion loss between the composite electrode and the substrate causes a sudden increase in resonant frequency. This study highlights the durability of the proposed electrode materials and structure at extreme temperatures and suggests future research to improve adhesion and extend the sensor’s lifespan, thereby enhancing the reliability and effectiveness of high-temperature wireless sensing in aerospace applications.