Multi-functional nanotechnology integration for aeronautical structures performance enhancement
International Journal of Structural Integrity
ISSN: 1757-9864
Article publication date: 3 December 2018
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the applicative potentiality of functional/self-responsive materials in aeronautics. In particular, the study aims to experimentally validate the enhancement of structural performances of carbon fibers samples in the presence of nanofillers, as multi-walled carbon nanontubes or microcapsules for the self-healing functionality.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper opted for a mechanical study. Experimental static and dynamic tests on “blank” and modified formulations were performed in order to estimate both strength and damping parameters. A cantilever beam test set-up has been proposed. As a parallel activity, a numerical FE approach has been introduced to assess the correct modeling of the system.
Findings
The paper provides practical and empirical insights about how self-responsive materials react to mechanical solicitations. It suggests that reinforcing a sample positively affects the samples properties since they, de facto, improve the global structural performance. This work highlights that the addition of carbon nanotubes strongly improves the mechanical properties with a simultaneous slight enhancement in the damping performance. Damping properties are, instead, strongly enhanced by the addition of self-healing components. A balanced combination of both fillers could be adopted to increase electrical conductivity and to improve global performance in damping and auto-repairing properties.
Practical implications
The paper includes implications for the use of lightweight composite materials in aeronautics.
Originality/value
This paper fulfills an identified need to study new lightweight self-responsive smart materials for aeronautical structural application.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The research leading to these results has received funding from the European Union’s Seventh Framework Program for research, technological development and demonstration under Grant Agreement No. 313978.
Citation
Viscardi, M., Arena, M., Guadagno, L., Vertuccio, L. and Barra, G. (2018), "Multi-functional nanotechnology integration for aeronautical structures performance enhancement", International Journal of Structural Integrity, Vol. 9 No. 6, pp. 737-752. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJSI-11-2017-0060
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2018, Emerald Publishing Limited