Identification of 'Defects' in Epoxy Matrix Composites and Carbon Fiber by Ultrasound. Interaction of the Ultrasonic Beam with the Material

Abstract

Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) methods, and especially, ultrasounds have gone from being a mere laboratory curiosity to an indispensable tool in the industry as a primary means of determining the level of quality achieved in its products (ASM, 1989; Barbero, 1999). This study will identify and apply the main physical phenomena of interaction of an ultrasonic wave in a composite material, to see if through this type of waves, you can detect defects of the type of porosity or delaminations in these materials. The percentages of reflected and transmitted waves in real cases of defects in the composite material will also be studied. It will be shown if the frequencies and intensities of the waves are adequate to find this type of defects or imperfections in the material. The theoretical study of the ultrasonic wave seeks to help researchers in the development of equipment that uses the methodology of immersion ultrasound for the inspection of materials in the search for 'defects' and to understand the physics of the test.