Leaks in pipelines, storage tanks, and industrial systems present significant operational, environmental, and financial risks. Traditional detection methods — visual inspections, pressure monitoring, and infrared sensing — often fall short in terms of accuracy, speed, and cost-effectiveness. This white paper, authored by Naftosense R&D coordinator Stefan Balatchev, presents polymer absorption sensors as a modern, real-time alternative capable of detecting hydrocarbons and other chemicals with high sensitivity across a wide range of industrial applications.
Technology Overview
Polymer absorption sensors operate through three core mechanisms: selective polymer materials with high chemical affinity, physical absorption that causes measurable changes in the polymer (e.g., expansion, viscosity, dielectric properties), and signal conversion via optical, electrical, or mechanical means — most commonly via changes in electrical resistance or capacitance.
Key Applications
The technology is applicable across a broad industrial landscape, including oil and gas pipelines (particularly at block valves and pig launchers), above-ground and underground storage tanks, offshore platforms and subsea pipelines, and refineries and chemical processing plants. Notably, the sensors also support emerging energy sectors, detecting leaks of ethanol, methanol, biodiesel, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHC) — positioning Naftosense as relevant to the energy transition, not just legacy fossil fuel infrastructure.
System Integration
Naftosense hardware pairs with the Lindsay SentraLink LD platform to deliver a comprehensive monitoring solution. This combination provides 24/7 web-based dashboard visibility, remote accessibility via cellular or satellite communication, battery-powered off-grid operation, and automated email/text alerts. The integrated system is designed for deployment in pipelines, tank farms, refineries, and produced water sites.
Core Value Proposition
The system can detect leaks as small as 1 ounce of product, enabling rapid response before minor incidents escalate into major environmental or operational events. Its durability, low maintenance requirements, and adaptability to harsh environments — including deep-sea conditions — make it a compelling solution for both conventional and challenging deployment scenarios.
Conclusion
Naftosense's polymer absorption sensors, combined with complementary monitoring platforms like Lindsay SentraLink LD, offer a reliable, scalable, and forward-looking approach to leak detection. The solution addresses growing regulatory pressure, aging infrastructure, and the evolving demands of new fuel technologies, making it a strong candidate for organizations seeking to proactively protect their infrastructure and minimize environmental liability.