Chemical process monitoring and the detection of moisture ingress in composites - art. no. 69330R

It is generally appreciated that the ingress of moisture in composites can have adverse effects on matrix-dominated properties such as the glass transition temperature and compressive mechanical properties. Moisture ingress in composites can also lead to swelling and blistering. A number of excellent studies have been reported on the detection, modelling and effects of moisture ingress on the properties of thermosetting resins (matrix) and composites. However, it is generally taken for granted that the quality of the resin and the processing conditions used to cross-link the resin are identical. Given the recent advances in the design and deployment of optical-fibre sensors in composites, it is now possible to use the same sensor to facilitate in-situ cure monitoring and structural health monitoring (after processing).