Textile-based piezoelectric impact sensors for fibre-reinforced plastic composites

Abstract

Abstract Bird strikes on wind turbine rotor blades have long-term impacts on fibre reinforced plastic composites. To monitor and document these impacts, integrating sensors into the composite structure is necessary. However, conventional sensors introduce foreign objects that deflect the fibre orientation, weakening the composite and potentially causing damage like delamination. To address this, silver-coated glass fibre sensors have been developed and integrated into the composite structure. Impact tests confirmed the functionality of the developed sensors. These sensors seamlessly integrate into the reinforcing structure due to their textile nature and multi-layered fibre structure. Unlike conventional sensors, they do not introduce foreign objects or create mechanical weak spots. Instead, they are expected to contribute to the overall stability of the component. In summary, integrating impact sensors into fibre reinforced plastic composites is crucial for documenting bird strike damage. Conventional sensors weaken the composite, but silver-coated glass fibre sensors resolve this issue by seamlessly integrating into the structure, enhancing stability and durability.