Measurement of process-induced strains in composite materials using embedded fiber optic sensors

Craig M. Lawrence; Drew V. Nelson; Jay R. Spingarn; Thomas E. Bennett

doi:10.1117/12.240892

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30 May 1996 Measurement of process-induced strains in composite materials using embedded fiber optic sensors

Craig M. Lawrence, Drew V. Nelson, Jay R. Spingarn, Thomas E. Bennett

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Proceedings Volume 2718, Smart Structures and Materials 1996: Smart Sensing, Processing, and Instrumentation; (1996) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.240892
Event: 1996 Symposium on Smart Structures and Materials, 1996, San Diego, CA, United States

Abstract

This paper presents the results of experiments to measure the internal strains and temperatures that are generated in carbon fiber/epoxy composite specimens during processing using embedded fiber optic strain sensors and thermocouples. Measurements of strain and temperature, combined with a computational model, offer the potential for non-destructive, real-time determination of residual stress in composites, and may be useful for process monitoring and control. Extrinsic Fabry-Perot interferometers, Bragg grating strain sensors, and thermocouples were embedded in graphite/epoxy composite laminates prior to cure. The specimens were cured in a press, and the internal strains and temperatures developed during processing were monitored and recorded. The results are compared with expected values, and limitations of the experimental technique are discussed.

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Craig M. Lawrence, Drew V. Nelson, Jay R. Spingarn, and Thomas E. Bennett "Measurement of process-induced strains in composite materials using embedded fiber optic sensors", Proc. SPIE 2718, Smart Structures and Materials 1996: Smart Sensing, Processing, and Instrumentation, (30 May 1996); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.240892

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