'Bruisable Composites'

Dates:
2005-2008

Sponsors:
UK department of trade and industry technology program

Project Brief:
This project aims to develop a novel, low cost visual based inspection technique for advanced composite materials and structures based on the concept of "bruisable composites". This concept involves incorporating microencapsulated polymer spheres containing different coloured dyes into the resin system, which are released when subjected to various forms of mechanical rupture (ie impact) or overstrain to form a "bruise". It is proposed that by modelling the area and colour intensity of the "bruise", it should be possible to produce guidelines which enable engineers, unfamiliar with composites or NDT techniques, to rapidly identify and quantify any deterioration in a composite structure, thereby actioning further detailed inspection, monitoring, repair or replacement.

Relevant industries include infrastructure (ie bridges, columns, wind turbines), transport (road, rail, marine, HGVs, air), chemical plant etc. This technique will be particularly appropriate for structures which are inaccessible.

Partners:
Euro-Projects (LTTC) Ltd

Pera Innovation Ltd

Scott Bader Company Ltd

Fibreforce Composites Ltd

VT Halmatic Ltd

BMT Renewables Ltd

Smart Fibres Ltd

WS Atkins Plc

Delivered:
- project in progress