Polymer matrices for composite materials: monitoring of manufacturing process, mechanical properties and ageing using fiber-optic sensors

Abstract. Composite materials have gained significant prominence in the field of aerospace engineering owing to their exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, making them well-suited for structural applications. However, these materials are susceptible to degradation due to exposure to environmental factors, such as humidity and temperature changes. Detecting and quantifying such damage presents considerable challenges, particularly in the case of cyclically loaded components. Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensors provide a non-destructive means of monitoring composite material degradation by leveraging optical reflection to measure changes in strain and temperature. This research aims to assess and validate a methodology for employing FBG sensors to effectively monitor the degradation of composite material matrices. The investigation mainly consists in characterizing the correlation between FBG sensor wavelength shifts and the strains incurred due to the manufacturing process, moisture absorption, and thermal effects. The anticipated outcomes hold the potential to enhance the reliability and safety of composite structures employed within the aeronautical domain.