Fiber-optic sensor system for heat-flux measurement

Two different types of fiber-optic sensors were used in an experiment to measure the heat flux in a simulated refractory lining material. The results obtained with a sensor based on fluorescence lifetime detection and a sensor based on the peak wavelength shift of a fiber Bragg grating are presented and compared. Analysis of the results of the measurements taken indicates that these fiber-optic sensor systems are capable of performing multipoint temperature, and thus the heat flux, measurements. An approach is also presented for the measurement of the temperature dependence of the conductivity coefficient of the materials concerned, using the sensor systems detailed. (C) 2004 American Institute of Physics.