Objective
"The aim of this research is to create multifunctional lightweight composite aerostructures utilising the unique properties of recently-developed carbon nanotube webs (CNTWs), produced from directly spinnable CNT forests (highly aligned CNTs grown on a silicon substrate). These webs will be strategically introduced into laminated carbon-fibre material to mitigate the current limitations primarily associated with poor impact damage resistance and poor electrical conductivity for lightning strike protection. The piezoresistive properties of CNTWs will also be exploited for structural health monitoring of bonded joints and their thermal conductivity investigated for potential anti-icing applications. Remarkably the inclusion of CNTWs would add negligible weight to the overall composite structure but a number of challenges will need to be overcome for their effective utilisation. This research proposal details a body of work which will address these challenges. A successful outcome will deliver a disruptive technology in the design and construction of the next generation of composite aerostructures. It will yield a significant weight reduction in future airframes and potentially lower maintenance costs, which will contribute to the overall aims of the European Union to reduce the environmental impact of aviation. Some of the additional functionalities, arising from the use of CNTWs, will also be of interest to other transport sectors and the wind energy industry."
Fields of science
- engineering and technologycivil engineeringstructural engineeringstructural health monitoring
- natural sciencesphysical scienceselectromagnetism and electronics
- engineering and technologyenvironmental engineeringenergy and fuelsrenewable energywind power
- natural scienceschemical sciencesinorganic chemistrymetalloids
Call for proposal
FP7-PEOPLE-2013-CIG
See other projects for this call
Coordinator
BT7 1NN Belfast
United Kingdom