Evaluation of high sensitivity flat-panel gaseous detectors of flames, sparks and smoke

The early detection of dangerous events, such as large-scale fires, is critical to prevent the subsequent loss in term of human lives and damage to infrastructure. Here we report about the latest evaluation of the performance of solar blind flat-panel sensors developed by us, for the detection of flames, sparks and smoke. These developments will make it possible to build detectors almost 1000 times more sensitive than the best commercial flame sensor presently available on the market, with 100 times better time resolution, and with ultraviolet imaging capability for flame visualization.