A procedure to embed fibre Bragg Grating strain sensors into GFRP sandwich structures

Dawood, T.A., Shenoi, R.A. and Sahin, M. (2007) A procedure to embed fibre Bragg Grating strain sensors into GFRP sandwich structures. Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing, 38, 217-226.

Abstract

Embedding optical Fibre Bragg Grating (FBG) strain sensors within a composite material enables monitoring of its internal mechanical behaviour. This allows early detection of internal defects that have not yet visibly manifested themselves on the material's exterior surface. However, to maintain correct operation of these optical sensors it is important that they be embedded properly within the composite material. A step by step procedure is demonstrated to embed Fibre Bragg Grating (FBG) strain sensors within a foam core glass fibre reinforced plastic (GFRP) sandwich composite beam specimen. Practical issues such as fibre alignment, specimen lay-up and resin infusion are discussed. In addition, the effect of the resin curing process on the FBG strain sensors is investigated to assess if any excessive residual strains exist, post cure, which could hamper the behaviour of the sensors. A static load analysis is then performed to verify the repeatability and accuracy of the FBG strain sensors.

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