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Product Bulletin

MCS
TSPR2KXY-M Methanol Concentration Sensor
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Texas Instruments Methanol Concentration Sensor (MCS) is an optical sensing technology for real-time methanol concentration analysis. The MCS is a miniaturized, self contained optical system that measures the refractive index of aqueous methanol samples rapidly and a ordably. The patented sensor design enables in-line process control for methanol based fuel systems.
The MCS is speci cally appropriate for use in Direct Methanol Fuel Cells (DMFC) applications such as: Portable Power Generation Military Radio Batteries Notebook Computers Cellular Phones PDAs Other Consumer Electronics The Methanol Concentration Sensor bene ts include: Compact, rugged, low cost sensor design Low power Self-calibration option for long term stability Temperature compensation Real-time, in-line monitoring capability Flexible on-board memory Technology roadmap for further miniaturization

Copyright Texas Instruments Incorporated 2004

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MCS enables fuel cells to operate at their optimal methanol concentrations by verifying operating concentrations rather than relying on indirect calculations. Optimal methanol concentration o ers the following advantages to DMFC systems: Provides internal fault detection capabilities Checks on uid system performance and enables real-time adjustments Permits use of lower cost valves and pumps Increases catalytic membrane life and overall fuel cell system life Increase overall system e ciency Optimal methanol concentra tion results in less crossover and higher power density Adding small amounts of Methanol to water increases the liquids Bulk Refractive Index:
MeOH % MeOH Expected RI Expected RI Relative by Weight Concentration(M) to Water in RI Unit @ 20oC 0% 1% 2% 3% 4% 5% 0 0.3125 0.625 0.9375 1.25 1.563 1.3330 1.3332 1.3334 1.3336 1.3338 1.3340
0 0.0002 0.0004 0.0006 0.0008 0.0010

MCS Product Speci cations

Expected Accuracy .......... 0.5% by Weight; .16 Molar (depends on system characteristics) Resolution ......................... .000003 Refractive Index Units Power Consumption ......... 5mW typical Response Time ................. <1 second Temperature Range ......... -15 oC to 70 oC Sensor Dimensions* ......... 3 x 0.7 x 1.5 cm * Path de ned for 3X sensor size reduction

Texas Instruments can provide assistance with electronics, software and uidics to facilitate integration. Refractive Index of Aqueous Methanol Sensor Dimensions: Solutions
Refractive Index @ 589
.095

1.34

1.170 .039

1.338

.024

1.336

.801 .235

1.334
.599

1.332

10

15

20

25

30

.062
Note: Sensor Dimensions are in inches

.265

% Methanol (by weight) in Water

ImportantNotice: Texas Instruments (TI) reserves the right to make changes to or to discontinue any product or service identi ed in this publication without notice. TI advises its customers to obtain the latest version of the relevant information to verify, before placing orders, that the information being relied upon is current. Texas Instruments assumes no responsibility for infringement of patents or rights of others based on Texas Instruments applications assistance or product speci cations since TI does not possess full access concerning the use or application of customers products. Texas Instruments also assumes no responsibility for customers product designs.

Texas InstrumentsIncorporated Sensors & Controls 34 Forest Street, MS 23-10 Attleboro, MA 02703-0964 Phone: 508-236-2514 Fax: 508-236-2349 Email: spreeta-info@ti.com or visit our website @: www.spreeta.com

Copyright 2004 Texas Instruments Incorporated Printed in U.S.A. 10-2004