Selectivity in mixed gases
Where existing laser-based sensors match only one absorption line from the gas’s spectrum, we can match over 50. This keeps the measurement highly specific to the target gas where humidity or other gases interfere.
Next-generation optical sensing for methane, carbon dioxide and ethylene
Wren Sensing is developing a gas sensing platform that uses fibre Bragg grating technology and near infrared light. We work with an industry collaborator and research partners on demanding gas measurement problems. We invite organisations to fund development of the next applications.
Current stage: field testing
Methane and carbon dioxide: on-farm livestock field trials. Ethylene: controlled atmosphere fruit storage target.
Planning a research study? Explore research collaboration.
Why develop with Wren Sensing
The platform is already in on-farm field testing, and each development project is shaped around the partner’s requirements.
Sensitivity at low concentrations
Our sensors are designed to measure concentrations in parts per million (ppm) or even parts per billion (ppb). Performance depends on the gas and conditions, so we evaluate it against your application.
One platform, more gases
By selecting absorption lines from each gas, we can measure multiple gas concentrations within one sensing system at minimal extra cost. Contact us to see what combinations are possible.
Applications with a shared sensing foundation
Livestock measurement
Methane and carbon dioxide · Livestock field trials
On a working farm, our sensor measures methane and carbon dioxide with cattle and sheep in real conditions. Its methane readings are compared with an existing methane sensor; carbon dioxide has so far been checked against an existing sensor in the laboratory, with a field comparison to follow.
Controlled atmosphere fruit storage
Ethylene · Target application
We are developing an ethylene sensor targeting measurements in the tens of parts per billion (ppb) for controlled atmosphere storage, where extremely low concentrations of ethylene must be distinguished from other volatile organic compounds to monitor stored fruit.
Industrial and environmental monitoring
Methane and carbon dioxide · Development opportunities
Gas plants, wastewater facilities and other industrial sites need dependable methane and carbon dioxide monitoring. We are looking for partners to develop sensing for these settings.
Horticultural research
Ethylene · Exploratory applications
Ethylene monitoring in orchards is exploratory. We invite research proposals on the measurement questions and field conditions involved.
Research and testing behind the platform
Laboratory work
Each sensor is tested automatically against calibrated gas canisters, and we run selectivity tests with interfering gases present.
Published research
Our sensor technology is powered by University of Sydney research. A 2024 study demonstrated the grating approach in the laboratory using acetylene (C2H2) as a test gas, including tests with interfering gases. Our sensor has improved even more since then.
Develop an application with us
Fund joint development around a defined measurement need, integrate the technology into your equipment or adapt sensing to a specific application. Contact us and we will assess together whether a project fits.
Collaborate on a research question
Research institutions and organisations with test settings can help answer practical sensing questions. Tell us what you want to study, the comparison method and the trial environment you could contribute.
Looking for a future sensor? Register sensor interest.
Tell us what you need to measure
Start with the gas, the environment and the problem you want to solve. A short outline without confidential details is enough.