Analysis of mechanical vibrations applied on a LPGFS smart composite polymer material

Abstract

The response of a Long Period Grating Fibre Sensor embedded into polymer matrix of a smart composite material to applied mechanical vibrations is analysed by observing the spectral shifts, broadenings and splitting of the resonance absorption bands appearing into resulting transmission spectrum. The developed model aims to improve the engineering of smart composite material fabrication and the design of its applications in aeronautics, industry, medicine and defence. The Long Period Grating Fibre Sensor simulation model is developed considering the role of optical fibre micro-bending effects caused by mechanical vibrations applied to polymer matrix. The sensor is operated as the smart composite material feedback loop which provides the input signal for automation systems and/or for smart material monitoring. The results of the performed simulations are compared to experimental results reported in literature observing a good agreement.