Detection of edge delamination in surface adhered active fiber composites

Abstract

A simple method has been developed to detect the bonding condition of active fiber composites (AFC) adhered to the surface of a host structure. Large deformation actuating capability is one of important features of AFC. Edge delamination in adhesive layer due to large interfacial shear stress at the free edge is typically resulted from axial strain mismatch between bonded materials. AFC patch possesses very good flexibility and toughness. When an AFC patch is partially delaminated from host structure, there remains sensing capability in the debonded part. The debonding size can be determined through axial resonance measured by the interdigitated electrodes symmetrically aligned on opposite surfaces of the patch. The electrical impedance and modal response of the AFC patch in part adhered to an aluminum plate were investigated in a broad frequency range. Debonding ratio of the AFC patch is in inverse proportion to the resonant frequency of the fundamental mode. Feasibility of in-situ detecting the progressive delamination between AFC patch and host plate is demonstrated.