PCB-MEMS Environmental Sensors in the Field

Sensor networks for in-water measurements using Organic MEMS are progressing in our research effort. PCBMEMS enabled systems, primarily in Liquid Crystal Polymer material (LCP) have emerged from the laboratory and are operational in the field. The latest progress in sensor development has yielded PCBMEMS sensors operating in the field for extended periods. In addition, we have developed the multisensor system that measures conductivity, temperature, and pressure, and combined it with a 3D system-in-package wireless module based on the 802.11b protocol to create a salinity network node and an environmental network system. The power consumption, reliability and fouling of the fieldable sensors have been evaluated. Our results indicate that biofouling has become the limiting factor for sustained performance of the multisensor system within the environment.