Impact damaging of composites through online monitoring and non-destructive evaluation with infrared thermography. (January 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Meola, C.; Boccardi, S.; Carlomagno, G.M.; Boffa, N.D.; Ricci, F.; Simeoli, G.; Russo, P.
• Is Part Of: NDT & E international. Volume 85(2017)
• Page Start: 34
• Page End: 42
• Publication Date: 2017-01
• Subjects: Infrared thermography -- Non-destructive evaluation -- Composite materials -- Thermoset matrix -- Thermoplastic matrix -- Impact tests; Nondestructive testing -- Periodicals; Contrôle non destructif -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 620.1127
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ndteint.2016.10.004
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0963-8695

Abstract

Abstract: The aim of this work is to highlight the help offered by infrared thermography in the investigation of impact damaging of composites. In particular, infrared thermography is herein used with a twofold function: monitoring of impact tests and non-destructive evaluation of impacted specimens. Different types of composites are considered which involve changing of either the matrix from a thermoset to a thermoplastic one with also addition of a compatibilizing agent, or the reinforcement from carbon to glass. The obtained results show a different behaviour under impact of the different materials with fibres breakage only in thermoset matrix composites for the same impact energy. The presence of the compatibilizing agent in the thermoplastic matrix prevents the material from large deformation bringing it to behave more similar to a thermoset matrix based material. Post-processing of thermal images allows evaluation of the overall impact-affected zone. Graphical abstract: Highlights: Monitoring of impact events with infrared thermography is advantageous. Infrared detectors sense even slighter heat dissipated through low impact energy. Post-processing of thermographic images supply information which help understand impact damage mechanisms. The visualized thermal signatures allow evaluation of the overall impact-affected area. Lock-in thermography is able to detect the most severe impact damage.