The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is introducing new photonic sensors that use light to measure temperature and humidity with high precision. While the current industry “gold standard” relies on fragile platinum thermometers that require frequent, expensive recalibration, these new devices use quantum physics principles to detect changes in light passing through silicon or optical fibers. This shift allows for instruments that are low-cost, portable, and resistant to interference, eliminating the need for regular recalibration.
These technologies are currently undergoing testing, with some bolometer designs already being used in satellites to measure solar energy. The potential impact spans across aerospace, medicine, and manufacturing, where accurate environmental monitoring is critical for safety and quality. By providing durable tools that resist interference from magnetic fields, NIST’s work could make precise temperature and humidity control accessible in settings ranging from factory floors to health care devices.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/noac/technology/thermodynamics/temperature
Keywords: photonic thermometers, bolometers, dew point sensors
