Reformulation of Electrochemical Sensors for Trace Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring

Electrochemical sensors for monitoring dissolved oxygen levels are commonplace in industrial, research
and regulatory labs. The industrial partner?s commercialized device is capable of real-time monitoring of
O2 at parts-per-billion levels but is interested in reformulating the electrode materials to remove heavy
metals, thereby minimizing negative environmental impact and ensuring sustainability of the technology.
This project will measure and document the characteristics of candidates to replace the heavy metals in
the electrodes while ensuring continued operation at necessary. The project will analyze viable options
for materials to be used as anodes and cathodes, optimize the pairing of anode and cathode materials
together to ensure measurement of O2 at parts-per-billion levels, and compare the outcomes to possible
next-generation optical sensor designs.

Faculty Supervisor:

Rodney Smith

Student:

Partner:

IC Controls Ltd.

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

University of Waterloo

Program: