Fluorescent Thermal Property Measurement in Radioactive Samples
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods fail to accurately determine thermal properties of materials, particularly in heterogeneous samples, which is crucial for assessing material degradation and consistency, especially in radioactive materials where equipment durability is affected by emitted radiation and heat.
Innovation Solution
The method employs frequency modulated pump light and fixed intensity probe light with fluorescent indicators to determine thermal diffusivity by modulating infrared light intensity and detecting phase delays in fluorescent emissions, using a system with a pump light source, probe light source, and photodetector, allowing for precise analysis of material samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional thermal measurement methods are used, then equipment can operate in radioactive environments, but measurement precision deteriorates due to radiation and heat interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces fluorescent indicators as intermediary substances that convert thermal information into optical signals. These indicators absorb pump light and emit fluorescent signals whose intensity and phase respond to temperature changes, thereby mediating between the thermal field (affected by radiation) and the optical detection system (resistant to radiation), solving the measurement precision problem in radioactive environments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional direct thermal measurement methods with an optical-based fluorescent detection system. By substituting thermal sensors with optical detection of fluorescent emissions, the system avoids direct contact with harsh thermal and radiation environments, maintaining measurement precision while resisting harmful environmental factors
2Measurement precision
If frequency modulated pump light and fluorescent indicators are used, then thermal diffusivity determination precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a commercial optical pickup unit that serves multiple functions: it provides the pump light source, the probe light source, and the photodetector in a single integrated device. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity despite the sophisticated optical measurements being performed, as one component replaces what would otherwise require multiple separate devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses frequency-modulated periodic pump light to excite the fluorescent indicators. By applying periodic excitation and analyzing the phase and amplitude of the resulting fluorescent signals, the system achieves precise thermal diffusivity measurement through frequency-domain analysis, improving precision while using standard periodic modulation techniques rather than more complex measurement protocols
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables accurate determination of thermal diffusivity, helping to identify material inconsistencies and degradation products, thus improving the assessment of material quality and equipment lifespan in radioactive environments.
Implementation Method 1
illuminating a surface of the material sample with an infrared light from a pump light source
Implementation Method 2
detecting fluorescent signals from the fluorescent indicator at a photodetector, over a duration, responsive to fluorescent emissions induced via the probe light
Implementation Method 3
modulating an intensity of the infrared light at an initial modulation frequency... fluorescent signals have a phase delay at the initial modulation frequency compared to the infrared light
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments disclosed herein relate to methods and systems for determining thermal properties of materials by using frequency modulated pump light intensity to cyclically heat a sample, and using probe light to induce fluorescent signals from fluorescent indicators on the surface of the material during the cyclic 5 heating. The methods and systems utilize the phase delay between the frequency modulated pump light and the corresponding fluorescent signals to determine the thermal properties of the material at one or more locations on the material sample.