LUNA INNOVATIONS INCORPORATED — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: N171-036

Description

Polymer matrix composites are increasingly replacing traditional metallic materials in marine platforms due to higher strength to weight ratio, ease of design, and corrosion resistance. Despite these advantages, the detection of cracks, flaws, and weak points within a structural composite, resulting from impact or fatigue, is difficult to visually detect by maintenance personnel. Nondestructive evaluation (NDE) and structure health monitoring methods for detecting composite damage can be effective, but are time consuming, expensive, and impractical for frequent routine inspections. A simple, visual indication system is desired for inspection personnel to detect potential composite damage quickly, preventing structural failure and reducing the time and expense of instrumented NDE testing. Luna has developed damage indicator paints for composites that visually change color in response to impacts or fatigue capable of damaging the underlying substrate. This affordable, easily applied paint will allow Navy personnel to rapidly identify potential composite damage in the field without the use of expensive equipment. Lunas system will be further enabled with the use of a tough, protective, antifouling surface to ensure excellent visual indication following composite damage.