Non-Destructive Evaluation of the Curing of Resin and Prepreg Using an Acoustic Waveguide Sensor

This paper will discuss a new technique that is currently being developed to monitor, in-situ, the cure of thermosetting materials. An acoustic waveguide is embedded within the thermosetting material as it cures. Monitoring the attenuation and transit time of ultrasound transmitted through the waveguide provides information on the curing process. Subsequently, the waveguide can be used to monitor impact damage and externally imposed stresses. Relative advantages of the technique include the ability to interrogate large volumes of the material, compatibility with host material and the potential for lifetime monitoring of material properties.