Miniature fiber-optic temperature sensor for extreme heat
This technology describes a manufacturing method for joining two different types of optical fibers — a standard silica fiber and a heat-resistant sapphire fiber — to create miniature temperature sensors. The process works by heating the tip of the silica fiber until it softens, then inserting the thinner sapphire fiber directly into its molten core, creating a fused mechanical and optical connection. Sapphire can withstand extremely high temperatures that would destroy conventional fiber optics, so this coupling technique enables temperature sensors capable of operating in harsh, high-heat environments. The result is a compact, fiber-based sensor that combines the flexibility of standard silica fiber infrastructure with the extreme-temperature performance of sapphire.
What you could build
A miniature fiber-optic temperature sensor for use in gas turbines, industrial furnaces, or nuclear reactors — sold to industrial OEMs, power generation equipment manufacturers, or aerospace engine makers who need non-contact, high-precision temperature measurement in extreme heat zones.
Who in Virginia should care
Defense and aerospace contractors in Northern Virginia and the Hampton Roads corridor — particularly those supporting naval propulsion or turbine engine programs — would have use cases for extreme-environment sensing.
Readiness: Lab validated
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Yizheng ZHU, Anbo Wang
- Granted
- July 27, 2010
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 7762720
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.