CFRP monitoring method with piezoresistive beams

In this study we present an approach for carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) monitoring using miniature embedded piezoresistive sensors. The sensor includes 3 pairs of piezoresistive beams that enable it to measure both three-dimensional stresses (3-D stresses) and Acoustic Emissions (AE). The sensor was so tiny that we can embed it in a CFRP sheet with thickness of 1.6 mm. X-ray image proves that the piezoresistive beams could maintain their form even after the pressing and heating process in CFRP formation. Experiment results demonstrate that 3-D stresses and AE can be measured at the same time using our proposed method.