Innovations in Smart Materials and Integrated Structural Health Monitoring in the Australian Defence Force

Matthew E. Ibrahim; Christine M. Scala

doi:10.4028/www.scientific.net/AST.56.545

Paper Titles

Optimization Algorithms for System Integration
p.514

Linking the Impact Force History with Residual Mechanical Characteristics and NDI - A Smart Way to Perform SHM in Composites
p.524

Embedding Intelligence for RTM Process Monitoring and Control
p.530

Biologically Inspired Shape Changing Aerodynamic Profiles and their Effect on Flight Performance of Future Aircraft
p.534

Innovations in Smart Materials and Integrated Structural Health Monitoring in the Australian Defence Force
p.545

Vibration Damage Reduction of On-Board Electronic Boards Using Modal Active Control
p.551

Monitoring Data for Retrofit Assessment
p.557

Protection of Mediterannean Historical Structures against Earthquakes Using Fragility Curves
p.563

Wireless Sensor Node Development for Bridge Condition Assessment
p.573

HomeAdvances in Science and TechnologyAdvances in Science and Technology Vol. 56Innovations in Smart Materials and Integrated...

Innovations in Smart Materials and Integrated Structural Health Monitoring in the Australian Defence Force

Abstract:

The Australian Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) has established a leading-edge program to enable the development and transitioning of innovative Smart Materials and Structures technology across the spectrum from fundamental science to use in the field. This program extends and harnesses technology in the area of Smart Materials, Sensors and Systems, in order to increase safety of Defence aircraft, ships, submarines and vehicles, increase availability, reduce the cost of asset ownership and operations, and enhance overall military capability. The program has linkages into broad networks, with strong university and industry relationships, and is also very relevant to the management of civil infrastructure and other equipment. We present here an overview of some key research areas within the DSTO Smart Materials and Structures Initiative, highlighting developments in : (i) Smart Materials, including environmentallyfriendly coatings that exhibit properties of greater flexibility and durability for aerospace applications, nano-crystalline coatings that provide increased wear resistance, and Defence applications for carbon nanotubes; (ii) Smart Sensing, including chemical, structural fatigue, fuel contamination, environmental degradation, corrosion and its precursors, and overheating and mechanical wear; and (iii) Smart Systems that employ innovative techniques to acquire and process data from a range of sensors by harvesting energy from local structures to power microelectronic circuits.