LPR Corrosion Sensor

The Analatom Inc. corrosion sensor is a Linear Polarization Resistor (LPR) that works on the same principle as macro LPR systems do.  It is a device that corrodes at the same rate as the structure on which it is placed.  The sensor is made up of two micromachined electrodes that are interdigitated at 150mm apart.  The corrosion reaction – both oxidation and reduction – produces a corrosion current that can be pre determined empirically for each sensor type, this I/V (Current/Voltage) form is called a Tafel plot.

The sensor itself is made from shim stock of the same material as the structure that is being monitored.  The shim is usually 25mm thick (0.001”) and is attached to a Kapton backing sheet of similar thickness.  This gives the sensor a total thickness in the 50mm range, although a thickness of up to 200mm are possible if required.  The shim is machined (pattered) using a photolithography technique, this allows for a varied design layout so that sensors can be fitted deep into tight structures such as bridge cables and lap joints.

The sensor can be placed directly on the metal surface of the structure to be monitored.  Painting and other surface preparations can be performed on top of the sensor with no damage to the sensor or coating.  In operation the sensors are unobtrusive and require no maintenance or inspection.  The system that monitors the sensor is low powered and both sensors and system are robust.  The system is designed to be easily installed and operated with an indefinite operating life.  The autonomous battery powered version of the system can run for over a decade without need for replacement.  A solar powered unit will also be available.  The GUI and user interface all load onto a standard Windows PC and are easy to use and interface with other sensors and systems.

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