HiFunda Advances High‑Temperature Oxygen Sensor Technology with New DOE SBIR Award​

Salt Lake City–based materials innovation company HiFunda LLC is moving forward with a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) SBIR Phase I award to develop an advanced in‑situ electrochemical oxygen sensor capable of operating in high‑temperature molten‑salt and liquid‑metal environments—key systems for next‑generation nuclear reactors and thermal‑energy technologies.​

The project focuses on creating a durable, real‑time oxygen‑monitoring solution for extremeenvironments where conventional sensors rapidly degrade. Accurate oxygen measurement is essentialfor controlling corrosion, maintaining chemical stability, and ensuring safe long‑term operation inmolten‑salt reactors, liquid‑sodium heat‑transfer loops, and other advanced energy systems.​

HiFunda was originally selected for the award in 2024, and DOE has now confirmed that the project isofficially moving into the contracting and execution phase. The timing reflects the agency’s resumptionof SBIR contracting activities following federal SBIR reauthorization and internal program restructuring.​

With the award now proceeding, HiFunda will begin developing and validating the sensor technology,leveraging its expertise in high‑temperature materials, electrochemical systems, and advanceddiagnostics for harsh environments.​

The project strengthens HiFunda’s growing portfolio in advanced nuclear materials and monitoringtechnologies, positioning the company as a key contributor to the next generation of clean‑energyinfrastructure.​