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ABSTRACT
The modern strain sensors currently used in monitoring the structural properties of such tank structures suffer from a number of limitations, including a low level of sensitivity and detection. In this work, we present a novel method of structural monitoring utilizing a thin film of carbon nanotubes carefully deposited on carbon fiber composites. The nanotube film and raw material were first characterized via microscopy and spectroscopy techniques. Bowing of the tank wall was simulated by applying a three-point bend load test, which was found to strongly affect the electrical resistance of the carbon nanotube film. These measurements were very reproducible, as the film resistance returned to its original value each time that the load was slowly released. We believe that these highly sensitive carbon nanotube films are potential candidates as replacements for the current health-monitoring sensors.
Acknowledgments
The authors wish to thank Judith McFall, formerly of ASRC Aerospace, for help in the strain testing. We are also indebted to Sarah Snyder and Walt Hatfield for their help in the early acquisition of data presented in this article. ASB acknowledges partial support from Grant No. DE-FG36-06GO86072 awarded by the U.S. Department of Energy and Grant No. NSF/EPS-1003970 awarded by the U.S. National Science Foundation. The editorial assistance of Dr. Marinelle Ringer is appreciated.