Damage assessment of multi-layered composite structure using an embedded active sensor network

Targeted at improving the overall integrity of functionalised composite structure, an embedded sensor network technique was developed using circuited piezoelectric wafers. The technical difficulties due to sensor embedment, such as electrical insulation, were addressed. With Hubert transform-based signal processing and a correlation-based identification algorithm, Lamb wave signals, excited and captured by the integrated sensor network, were evaluated for damage assessment. Effectiveness of the sensor network and proposed identification algorithm was demonstrated by identifying delamination in orthotropic woven fabric CF/EP composite laminates. Excellent identification capacity of the built-in sensor network indicates its considerable application potential in providing high-fidelity data acquisition/condition monitoring for composite structures.