Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2-2012

Publication Source

International Journal of Smart and Nano Materials

Abstract

In order to more effectively monitor the health of composite structures, a fuzzy fiber sensor has been developed. The fuzzy fiber is a bundle of glass fibers with carbon nanotubes or nanofibers (CNTs or CNFs) grown on the surface. The nanotube coating makes the fiber bundle conductive while the small conductive path increases sensitivity. The fuzzy fiber sensor can replace conventional metal foil strain gauges in composite applications. The electrical response of the sensor is monitored in real time to measure strain, vibration, cracking and delamination. Continuous monitoring provides instant notification of any problems. Implementation of this sensor network in a composite can increase service life, decrease maintenance costs and greatly reduce inspection downtime.

Inclusive pages

162-168

ISBN/ISSN

1947-5411

Document Version

Published Version

Comments

Permission documentation is on file.

This work was supported by U.S. Air Force AFOSR funds under contract number FA9550-09-1-0686.

Publisher

Taylor & Francis

Volume

3

Peer Reviewed

yes

Issue

2

Link to published version

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