Nondestructive Inspection Technique For Composite Material Components

Digiray reverse geometry x-ray scanning technology is evaluated for in-situ inspection of composite components. Applicability of current Digiray machines is established directly by tests. Feasibility of extending Digiray technology for the full range of materials and thicknesses of interest, and for submersed inspections, is established by engineering studies. Technical approaches and design concepts for a submersible inspection tool are submitted for development by the Phase II program. Composite specimens of interest are inspected by existing Digiray machines. Detection and resolution capabilities, in terms of specimen thickness, feature size and feature type, are established by quantitative data analysis. Analytical methods are corrolated and calibrated using test data. Calibrated analytical methods are used in engineering studies to determine design modifications required to extend applicability over the full range of materials and thicknesses of interest, and to establish feasible technical approaches to these modifications. Computations will determine x-ray energies required to inspect the full range of materials and thicknesses of interest. Engineering studies will establish the technical approach and feasibility of attaining required x-ray voltages. All data, technical approaches, and engineering results will be submitted in a final technical report.