The application of thick-film peizoresistive technology for combustion pressure sensing

Fawcett, Nigel (1999) The application of thick-film peizoresistive technology for combustion pressure sensing. University of Southampton, School of Engineering Sciences, Doctoral Thesis.

Abstract

This thesis identifies the benefits offered by combustion pressure measurement in petrol engines to real-time engine control. Benefits include reduced exhaust emissions and better engine performance. The various techniques used for combustion pressure measurement are reviewed, and thick-film piezoresistive technology is identified as a technology capable of producing a low cost sensor.
Two possible locations for. the thick-film pressure sensor are experimentally investigated, both on the spark plug.
The piezoresistive material chosen is Heraeus 8241, a widely used material based on jt ruthenium dioxide particles in a glass matrix. Properties relevant to the construction of a combustion pressure sensor are evaluated; the elastic modulus is measured for the first time between 173 and 573K, and piezoresistivity is measured for the first time between 77 and 533K. The response of thick-film piezoresistors to hydrostatic pressure is investigated. A spark plug sensor is constructed, calibrated and engine tested. The detection of the angle of peak pressure, magnitude of peak pressure and knock is demonstrated.

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