Embedded Microsensors for Health Monitoring of High-Temperature Composites(1001-169)

Triton Systems, Inc is addressing the needs of the Air Force for an embedded sensor technology to monitor thermo oxidative degradation within high-temperature composites. The proposed Phase II program builds on the successful Phase I proof-of-concept of a durable sensor compatible with the fabrication process of high temperature composites and their operating temperatures in excess of 750 deg C. The sensor design and fabrication process will be refined. The sensors will then be embedded in high-temperature composites and monitored during thermo oxidative aging and thermal cycling tests. Output from the sensor will be correlated with mechanical testing and thermo oxidation modeling results to gain new understanding into the degradation behavior of AFR-PE-4, and other high-temperature composites. This Phase II program will achieve a TRL 6 demonstration of the embeddable sensor technology and contribute to better design capabilities for new high-temperature composite parts. The technique will also be demonstrated as a method of performing health monitoring during the operation of composite parts in high-temperature applications.