Composite Structure Monitoring using Direct Write Sensors

This NASA SBIR Phase II project seeks to develop and demonstrate a suite of sensor products to monitor the health of composite structures. Sensors will be made using the Company¡¦s Direct Write process based on Mesoplasma?§ deposition technology. This allows a wide variety of sensor materials and architectures to be deposited onto conformal components made from polymer composite, metallic, and ceramic materials. Sensors include strain gages, thermocouples, piezoelectric devices, damage detection systems along withshielded conductors and passive circuit components. Improving the compatibility of the Direct Write Process with advanced composites is essential for transitioning the technologies to NASA platforms.A principal objective is to demonstrate operability of Direct Write sensors under environmental conditions that may be expected on a NASA mission for which composite monitoring is necessary. Instrumented structures will be exposed to cryogenic and high temperature environments as well as requisite mechanical loading as anticipated in operation. Sensors will demonstrate their diagnostic capability and compatibility with existing data acquisition and health management infrastructure for NASA applications of interest. Furthermore, reducing cumbersome leadwire bundles through integrated wiring or passive wireless sensing approaches will make Direct Write technology an even more suitable solution for integrated health and condition monitoring.