Impact Indicator Paint for Composites

Luna Innovations proposes to develop impact indicator paint for use on graphite composites. Microencapsulants incorporated into the paint burst at an impact level capable of causing damage to the underlying composite and resulting in the generation of a colored mark. A color change in the composite coating alerts maintenance personnel to the potential damage and identifies a specific area for further detailed inspection to determine if repairs are needed. The marker can be designed to be visible to only aircraft maintenance personnel. The microencapsulants will be incorporated in a one component aqueous based flexible coating with good mechanical properties and adhesion to composites. A one component system will simplify coating applications, and an aqueous based system will greatly reduce the use of hazardous solvents and materials. The proposal addresses the Air Force's need to develop a graphite fiber composite damage detection method which improves rapidity and cost of post-damage inspections.