Designed Defects in Laminate Composites
Need:
As defects are a common problem occurring in laminated composite materials, it is important to determine whether a defect exists in laminated parts or structures. A conventional method of creating a delamination defect involves the insertion of a thin plastic membrane in the composite sample to simulate the actual defect. Often times the conventional method does not suffice because of the difference in mechanical and thermal properties between a real delamination and a plastic membrane or insert.
Solution:
Researchers at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo have developed methods and kits for creating defects in composite materials, as well as an engineered part or structure. The inventions advantageously permit the intentional introduction of one or multiple defects of any desired size and shape, either between the same two chosen laminae or on different layers within a multi-layer composite.
Applications:
- Composite inspection services
- In-house tool for composite development or application companies
Advantages:
- The standard test specimen enables various inspection techniques to be compared
- The test specimen can also be used as a demonstration or a calibration standard for a manufacturer of nondestructive inspection equipment
- Enables user to quantify the decrease in performance due to a defect
IP Status:
US 8,865,296 issued 10/21/2014
Licensing Status:
Available - please contact us for more information.