Damage Assessment for Composite Smart Structures

The aerospace industry is increasing its use of composite materials because of their high: strength and stiffness to weight ratios. These attributes not only provide a direct incentive but have a “multiplier ” effect that operates to reduce fuel consumption and engine weight. In addition these materials possess other desirable properties such as: low thermal expansion, resistance to fatigue and corrosion. In the next generation of aircraft advanced composite materials could constitute a substantial portion of an airframe structure