The program will directly benefit the advancement towards linerless cryogenic tanks for space exploration applications. Structural components in both manned and unmanned vehicles will benefit from the thin-ply composites by increasing design allowables resulting in thinner and lighter structures. Additionally, Structural Health Monitoring Systems (SHMS) and Health and Usage Monitoring Systems (HUMS) are both technologies that aim to improve component life prediction through the analysis of operational data collected by sensors. The correlation between AE signal accumulation and crack density within composite parts is a powerful tool for any industry currently using composite materials. This technology can give real time information regarding the health of the composite part, allowing for efficient servicing and/or replacement of parts.
Any industry utilizing composite materials can benefit from the advancement of thin-ply composites, which includes the automotive industry, fixed-wing aircraft, rotorcraft, industrial pressure vessels, and recreational sports equipment. Benchmarking the relationship between acoustic emissions and composite damage enables Structural Health Monitoring Systems for any application where safety is of a concern (i.e. commercial aircraft).
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