Telescopic Electrochemical Corrosion Sensor for Coated Surfaces
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrochemical cell systems face challenges in accurately detecting electrochemical changes in objects without causing damage, particularly when measuring large areas or objects with protective non-conductive coatings, due to issues with direct electrolyte contact, limited sensing range, and impracticality for on-site measurements.
Innovation Solution
A telescopic, electrically conductive apparatus with a sealed design and magnetic attachment system that allows for non-destructive measurement of electrochemical changes by maintaining electrical contact without direct electrolyte contact, enabling measurements on any oriented surface, including vertical surfaces, and extending the sensing area without removing protective coatings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an open electrochemical cell is used to measure electrochemical changes, then the measurement can be performed on the object surface, but the electrolyte comes into direct contact with the object causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
A protective coating is applied to the object surface before placing the open electrochemical cell. This coating acts as an intermediary layer that prevents direct contact between the electrolyte and the object, thereby eliminating electrolyte-induced damage while still allowing electrochemical measurements to be performed through the coating
2Adaptability or versatility
If an open electrochemical cell is used, then measurements can be performed, but electrolyte leaks from cells on angled or downward-facing surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
Magnetic attachment mechanisms are integrated into the open electrochemical cell design. These magnets provide a holding force that counteracts gravity and prevents electrolyte leakage from the cell, enabling reliable measurements on angled, vertical, or downward-facing surfaces without compromising electrolyte retention
3Productivity
If the sensing area is increased to cover large object areas, then fewer measurements are needed, but the device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing area is divided into multiple smaller, modular sensor elements that can be individually applied to the object surface. These segmented sensors can be positioned in a grid pattern or distributed arrangement to cover large areas, maintaining measurement efficiency while keeping each individual sensor element simple and manageable
4Area of stationary object
If multiple sensors are used to cover large areas, then complete coverage is achieved, but the time and effort for application increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sensing elements are integrated into a single combined sensor assembly that functions as one unified measurement device. This merged design allows the entire sensing array to be applied to the object surface in a single operation, achieving complete area coverage while significantly reducing the time and effort required compared to applying individual sensors separately
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
The apparatus provides accurate and non-destructive electrochemical impedance measurements on large areas and challenging geometries, reducing the need for multiple sensors and minimizing electrochemical interference, while maintaining electrical contact and preventing electrolyte leakage.
Implementation Method 1
The body may comprise at least one magnet arranged to, in use, apply a magnetic force to the object and thereby to attach the body to the object
Implementation Method 2
In EIS, an alternating potential is applied to an electrochemical cell, and the response of the cell (its electrochemical impedance) is measured. The measured impedance - and in particular its frequency-dependence - can be analysed to determine if electrochemical change has occurred in an object
Implementation Method 3
the substantially electrically conductive body is sufficiently conductive to conduct electricity between the first electrode and the object
Data Source
Figure 1(a)~1(b)
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Apparatus (200) for detecting corrosion of a coating (250) of an object (216), the apparatus comprising: an electrically conductive body (202) defining a cavity (204) for containing an electrolyte (206), the body (202) arranged to be, in use, in electrically conductive contact with the object (216) and arranged to isolate, in use, the electrolyte (206) from the object; and a first electrode (208) within the cavity (204), the first electrode (208) for electrical connection to a potentiostat (402) or to a galvanostat and arranged to be, in use, in electrical contact with the electrolyte (206) in the cavity (204); wherein the body (202) comprises a first part (222) and a second part (224), the second part (224) being slidably movable relative to the first part (222) between a retracted position and an extended position.