Development and evaluation of polymer/PZT piezoelectric sensor for structural health monitoring

Abstract

Materials capable of significantly altering one or more of their properties (mechanical, thermal, optical or electrical) under the action of an external mechanical stimulus are classified as intelligent materials. Due to their unique characteristics, these materials are perfect for sensor development. Among these materials, we highlight piezoelectric materials, which produce an electric current under the action of an external stimulus, or variation in its dimensions when subjected to an electric field. In order to evaluate the potential of three-phase piezoelectric composites for the development of a structural health monitoring sensor, the present project will aim to carry out a systematic study of the piezoelectric, electric and dielectric properties of polymer/PZT piezoelectric composites with 1-3 and a conductive phase (carbon nanotubes). The impedance technique will be used to evaluate the conduction and relaxation processes that occur inside the material when subjected to an ac electric field, as well as the resonance frequency. The piezoelectric coefficient d33 will be evaluated as a function of the amount of PZT micro-waves, the amount of conductive particles and the polarization time of the electric field. Finally, with the samples obtained from the piezoelectric composites, sensors will be developed, and the acoustic emission technique will be evaluated for the potential of the material for the monitoring of structural health. (AU)