Abstract
A concept that utilizes the lead zirconate titanate (PZT) nano active fiber composites (NAFCs) to sense the acoustic emission (AE) for structural health monitoring (SHM) is demonstrated. The developed NAFCs consist of nanoscale PZT fibers with interdigitated electrodes on a silicon substrate. PZT nanofibers fabricated by an electrospinning process have a diameter of approximately 80 nm and aligned across the electrodes. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is severed as the polymer matrix and covers the sensor surfaces to protect nanofibers structures. The AE detection was demonstrated by both mounting the sensor on the surface of a steel table and embedding it in an epoxy structure. The output voltage reached the amplitude of 0.2 V in response to the acoustic wave generated by periodic impacts using a steel bar. The signal attenuation curves were measured to characterize the properties and demonstrate the anisotropic sensitivity of the PZT NAFCs sensor. The highly sensitive micro-sized PZT NAFCs sensors have promising applications in the SHM of composite structures such as the advanced carbon fiber-reinforced composites used in aerospace industry.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Selected Topics in Micro/Nano-robotics for Biomedical Applications |
Pages | 9-22 |
Number of pages | 14 |
Volume | 9781441984111 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9781441984111 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 1 Nov 2010 |