High-Temperature Strain Gage for Static and Dynamic Tests

ABSTRACT: Characterization of the mechanical properties and performance of advanced structural materials at high temperatures is critically important for the development of materials that will enable the next generation of military aircraft, including hypersonic vehicles. Instrumentation that can survive the high temperature environment while delivering accurate measurements reliably is needed to support validation of new materials such as high-temperature intermetallics and composites. Prime Photonics, teaming with researchers at Virginia Tech, proposes to develop a new, robust fiber optic strain gage system capable of accurate strain measurements under both dynamic and static loading of test samples at high temperatures. A novel glass system will be used to manufacture the strain gages so that they can withstand higher strain levels than fused silica, up to 20,000 microstrain. In addition, an interrogator (signal conditioner) based on a new optical architecture will be developed to enable the use of the fiber optic strain gage for both static tests and dynamic tests with strain rates exceeding 1000 microstrain per millisecond. BENEFIT: The initial target product application for the proposed high temperature fiber optic strain gage will be for high temperature materials and structures testing, marketed to DoD and NASA, university and commercial laboratories. Beyond fiber sensor applications, the novel low modulus glass system will be marketed for specialty optical and electrical insulator applications. Additionally, the novel static/dynamic Fabry-Perot interrogator will have widespread sensing applications including temperature, pressure, and vibration measurements and will be marketed by Prime Photonics as part of the existing VectorLight product line. During the Phase I, Prime Photonics will work closely with US Air Force stakeholders and company commercial contacts to identify candidate applications and candidate acquisition programs and transition partners. Prime Photonics will utilize existing contacts within the military and commercial gas turbine engine community to identify and develop transition targets and business plan for the high temperature strain gage and dynamic/static interrogator products.