Laser Ultrasonic Inspection of Adhesive Bonds Used in Automotive Body Assembly

Metal/adhesive bonds are being used extensively in the automotive, aerospace, and related industries. Adhesive bonding adds strength and thus allows the use of lighter components at equal performance. The associated weight savings reduce both fuel consumption and undesirable emissions. However, at the present time, only statistical, destructive techniques are used to determine the integrity of the bonds. A nondestructive, in-line inspection technique would enable the wider use of adhesive bonds. This project will apply laser ultrasonics to meet the requirement for the noncontact, real time, in-line inspection of these adhesive bonds. Phase I will determine the best beam configuration and laser power. The preferred signal interpretation and processing approach for evaluating the expected defects also will be determined. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The inspection technology should be applicable to the bonding of metal and composite components for automotive and aerospace structural assemblies, where strength and weight strongly affect performance. Other important market segments include electronic assemblies, computers, and medical devices.