Composite Calibration Standards Kit for Interchangeable use in NDI Systems

ABSTRACT:In order to diagnose flaws accurately with commercial non-destructive inspection (NDI) techniques in composite parts for repair and re-qualification decisions, calibration data using known references is imperative for NDI instrument optimization prior to their NDI. A set of these calibration standards usable interchangeably with NDI systems, such as pulse-echo ultrasound, or PE-UT, infrared thermography (IRT) and shearography, are required.Our Phase-I results on engineered defects in solid-core carbon fiber laminates with two types of flaws (i) delamination and (ii) impact damage were shown to be detectable under both IRT and PE-UT. We have, thus, demonstrated interchangeable feasibility under 2 modalities in candidate composites.In this Phase-II, Innoveyda proposes to further develop a composite standards kit for NDI instrumentation calibration.The proposed kit will include engineered (i) delamination (ii) impact damage and (iii) fatigue loading induced damage; comprising at least two material constituent combinations.The deliverable kit shall be characterized with all possible NDI modalities. In addition to NDI with PE-UT and IRT, Phase II candidates will also undergo shearography. In addition to standard reporting, Phase-II deliverables include all NDI data accompanying a Composite Calibration Standards kit delivered to an Air Logistics Center, demonstrating its interchangeable use under three NDI modalities.BENEFIT:Our technology will have both military and civilian applications in composites NDI to improve reliability and safety. While the military applications are evident from its development and the above discussion, its non-military transportation applications include: commercial aircraft NDI, spacecraft NDI, and ground transportation systems NDI for trains as well as ultra-lightweight automobiles, such as from Tesla.The role of using our technology for NDI systems calibration prior to performing NDI on an unknown composite is expected to increase the probability of detection of damage. In addition there are several other areas where enhancement in composites integrity by accurate NDI is desired.