Structural health monitoring of a CFRP structural bonded repair by using a carbon nanotube modified adhesive film

Crack-sensing capabilities of a carbon nanotube (CNT) doped adhesive film have been analysed from coupon level to composite repaired panel. Mechanical performance is not negatively affected by the addition CNTs, due their good distribution inside adhesive. Moreover, electrical resistance increases with displacement in both Single Lap Shear (SLS) and Mode-I joints, combined effect deformation crack propagation. More specifically, joints usually show stick–slip behaviour sharp arrest phases resistance, associated changes failure modes. Furthermore, structural health monitoring (SHM) test repair was carried out different techniques such as acoustic emission, strain gauges CNT monitoring. From adhesive, it possible identify some load thresholds which starts increase. They coincide sudden field monitored gauges, well as, peaks sound level, being an indicative nucleation, and, finally, Therefore highlights great potential robustness for on-line SHM purpose proposed CNT-doped films.