Background :
Dew point is a value that measures the absolute amount of moisture in the air in a particular space by indicating the temperature at which moisture will condense on a surface. It provides an excellent method of controlling humidity because, unlike relative humidity, which varies with temperature, dew point values remain constant regardless of temperature. Dewpoint hygrometers are devices that measure the dew point temperature of air by cooling a surface in contact with the air to that temperature. The dew point hygrometer is claimed to be the most accurate instrument for measuring air humidity. There are plenty of control strategies and equipment that can remove moisture from the air, but accurate measurement of the dew point levels is the only effective way to control the amount of moisture in the air. Chilled mirror hygrometers are used in labs as well as in industrial applications where precise and repeatable humidity measurement and control is required. However, these temperamental laboratory-grade sensors are very expensive.
Technology Overview :
Researchers at Stony Brook University (SBU) have proposed a new method of detecting dew point and icing conditions with hygrometers based on carbon nanomaterials. These sensors enable the adsorption of a thin molecular layer of water on the surface of graphene oxide and detect the first-order phase transition of water to ice. Proton conduction in graphene oxide is found to be associated with humidity levels and temperature variations. Thus, graphene oxide films can be utilized as a new, cost‑effective hygrometer platform for the direct and precise determination of dew point, replacing expensive dew point sensors.
Advantages :
Applications :
Intellectual Property Summary : US20240210338A1 (Pending)
Stage of Development :
Licensing Status : Available
Licensing Potential : Development partner - Commercial partner - Licensing
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