The corrosion of steel reinforcement in reinforced concrete structures constitutes an alarming problem. To combat this problem, researchers at the University of Texas at Austin developed two, low-cost, passive, wireless sensors: a threshold, corrosion sensor and an analog conductivity sensor. Today, the basic circuit designs for both sensors are finished and their reliabilities are confirmed. However, multiple problems regarding the durability of the sensors remain. This research project: (a) identifies these problems, (b) proposes enhancements for each type of passive, wireless sensor, (c) tests and evaluates the proposed modifications to the sensors, and (d) proposes potential improvements and areas of research regarding the future development of these two sensors. / text

The diploma thesis introduces the reader to the problems of chemical sensors and the basics of degradation processes in materials of animal origin. It describes some types of sensors and their principles. Atmel ATmega328 microprocessor, its parameters and programming are described. In the next part of the thesis there is a proposal and production of equipment for monitoring of degradation processes in materials of animal origin. Sample sof chicken and milk were mesuared. From these measurements, the gas concentration values were determined, where samples can be considered suitable for consumation.

This work deals with branch of gas sensors, their construction and methodology of testing. The general aim is a design and implementation of a station for simple testing of conduction gas sensors. The whole station is conceived as virtual measuring apparatus, operated by PC in LabView environment. The station enables mixing of any two gases at concentration demanded and measuring of the basic conduction characteristics of the thick-film and thin-film gas sensors. The central communication interface and modular conception enable easy expansion of possibilities of the whole apparatus in the future. It is possible to measure up to eight gas sensors split into two TO-12 packages simultaneously.