Shengjie Wang , Wenhao Zhao , Binghao Lang , Yana Wang , Yifeng Dong , Qiqige Wuyun , Hongshuai Lei , Xuefeng Yao , Heng Yang
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites are widely used in aerospace and automotive industries for their superior mechanical properties and lightweight characteristics. However, their complex behavior challenges structural safety, requiring effective online monitoring. Existing sensors lack sufficient sensitivity to detect minor damage, while embedded sensors may compromise the mechanical properties of CFRP, impairing long-term strain monitoring. This study proposes a reduced graphene oxide (rGO)/epoxy strain sensor based on a pre-strain strategy, which achieves anisotropic regulation through the directional alignment of microstructures and effectively preserves both the pre-strained configuration and aligned microstructure using transfer printing technology. The sensor demonstrates a gauge factor of 80.07 under 25 % pre-strain, representing a 9.43-fold enhancement compared to sensors without pre-strain. The underlying mechanism of sensitivity enhancement was revealed using a tunneling theory model. During cyclic tensile testing, the sensor demonstrated excellent stability and repeatability, underscoring its potential for real-time structural health monitoring of CFRP composites. The simulation results demonstrate that when the thickness of the embedded sensor is 20 μm, the maximum relative strain error induced is only 1.220 %, indicating that reducing the sensor thickness is a critical approach to minimizing interference with the strain field of the composite material and preserving its mechanical properties.
期刊介绍:
The past few decades have seen outstanding advances in the use of composite materials in structural applications. There can be little doubt that, within engineering circles, composites have revolutionised traditional design concepts and made possible an unparalleled range of new and exciting possibilities as viable materials for construction. Composite Structures, an International Journal, disseminates knowledge between users, manufacturers, designers and researchers involved in structures or structural components manufactured using composite materials.
The journal publishes papers which contribute to knowledge in the use of composite materials in engineering structures. Papers deal with design, research and development studies, experimental investigations, theoretical analysis and fabrication techniques relevant to the application of composites in load-bearing components for assemblies, ranging from individual components such as plates and shells to complete composite structures.