Development of a Multifunction Soft Sensor for Enhanced Chemical Reaction Monitoring
Researchers A.K. Pathak and M. Kundu have developed a multifunctional soft sensor that utilizes impedimetric parameters to improve real-time monitoring and control of chemical reactions. The sensor’s flexible design allows it to conform to various shapes, enabling its use in diverse chemical environments. Integrated AI algorithms optimize reaction outcomes, while the sensor enhances safety by detecting hazardous conditions early.
The article details a pioneering advancement in chemical process monitoring by researchers A.K. Pathak and M. Kundu who created a multifunctional soft sensor based on impedimetric sensing. This technology measures the impedance characteristics of chemical reaction media, providing real-time insights into reaction dynamics such as temperature, concentration, and pressure. Unlike traditional rigid sensors, the soft sensor's flexibility allows it to adapt to different geometries, making it suitable for applications from small laboratories to large industrial plants. The multifunctional capability enables simultaneous measurement of multiple parameters, reducing complexity and cost. Advanced polymer-based materials enhance the sensor’s sensitivity and lightweight design. Crucially, embedded AI algorithms analyze impedimetric data to predict reaction outcomes and suggest adjustments for optimized performance. This integration supports smart manufacturing and promotes safer chemical processing by preemptively identifying potential hazards. Field tests confirm the sensor’s effectiveness in detecting subtle impedance changes related to reaction kinetics, supporting improved process control and regulatory compliance. The researchers aim to transform chemical reaction monitoring by combining state-of-the-art materials science with computational intelligence, driving innovation toward automated, efficient, and safer chemical manufacturing. The sensor’s adoption could extend beyond chemicals into pharmaceuticals and bioengineering, highlighting its broad industrial relevance. Their findings are set to be published in the journal Ionics, marking a significant technological milestone in chemical engineering.
