SEDL / STP / STP797-EB / STP28540S

Nondestructive Evaluation of Composite Materials: A Philosophy, An Approach, and An Example

Duke, JC
Assistant Professor, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Va.

Pages: 21    Published: Jan 1983

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Abstract

Composite materials are being used more and more in critical structural members. It is extremely important to be able to nondestructively evaluate their quality. This paper discusses a philosophy regarding nondestructive evaluation (NDE) which suggests that such an evaluation must include inspection and an assessment, in light of specifications, of existing imperfections in the materials. Advancement in the general area of nondestructive evaluation of composite materials requires an approach that seeks to improve both the inspection and assessment aspects in an integrated fashion. An approach of this type is described.

An example of the approach applied to the characterization of the materials response of boron carbide-coated, boron fiber-reinforced titanium is presented.