Optimization studies of self-sensing composites

The demand for real-time or in situ structural health monitoring has stimulated efforts to integrate self and environmental sensing capabilities into structural composite materials. Essential to the application of smart composites is the issue of the mechanical coupling of the sensor to the host material. In this study various methods of embedding sensors within the host composite material are examined. Quasi-static three-point bending (short beam) and fatigue three-point bending (short beam) tests are conducted in order to characterize the effects of introducing the sensors or suitable simulated sensors. The sensors that are examined include simulated sensors in the form of chip resistors with the original packaging geometry and thin film sensors (PVDF). The sensors are integrated into the composite either by placement between the layers of prepreg or by placement within precision punched cut-outs of the prepreg material. Thus, through these tests we determine the technique that optimizes the mechanical properties of the host composite material.