Use of Embedded Optical fibers for Structural Analysis

The use of embedded optical fibers in composite structures has been considered a very attractive technology for health monitoring and system identification for many years. In this paper several specimens with embedded polymide coated optical fibers have been tested to verify the change in the mechanical characteristics of carbon fiber reinforced plastic composites by traction and interlaminar shear tests. Then optical interferometric measurements have been used to study the dynamic behavior of the specimens, working out the FFT of the response of a Glass Fiber Reinforced Plastic specimen. In that case acrylate coated optical fibers specifically produced for laser application have been used.