Detection of matrix cracks in composite laminates using embedded fiber-optic distributed strain sensing

We used an optical frequency-domain reflectometry fiber Bragg grating (FBG) distributed strain measurement system to detect matrix cracks in carbon fiber-reinforced plastics. Load/unload tests were performed on cross-ply laminates under ambient-, high-, and low-temperature conditions using embedded 100 mm gauge FBG sensors. We measured the strain distributed along the gauge and examined the crack initiation using optical microscopy and soft X-ray inspection. A peak appeared in the distributed strain corresponding to the occurrence of cracks. The strain distribution during crack initiation was calculated in each temperature range via finite element analysis and compared with the measurement results. We determined that the number and location of cracks can be determined by extracting the peaks from the distributed strain. However, the peaks in the distributed strain do not correspond to the occurrence of cracks that are close to each other, warranting a measurement method with a higher strain resolution.