Method and apparatus for evaluating structural weakness in polymer matrix composites

Patent · Mon Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 1996

OSTI ID:870250

Wachter, Eric A ^[1]; Fisher, Walter G ^[2]

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1. Oak Ridge, TN
2. Knoxville, TN

A method and apparatus for evaluating structural weaknesses in polymer matrix composites is described. An object to be studied is illuminated with laser radiation and fluorescence emanating therefrom is collected and filtered. The fluorescence is then imaged and the image is studied to determine fluorescence intensity over the surface of the object being studied and the wavelength of maximum fluorescent intensity. Such images provide a map of the structural integrity of the part being studied and weaknesses, particularly weaknesses created by exposure of the object to heat, are readily visible in the image.

• Research Organization: Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States)
• DOE Contract Number: AC05-84OR21400
• Assignee: Martin Marietta Energy Systems, Inc. (Oak Ridge, TN)
• Patent Number(s): US 5483338
• OSTI ID: 870250
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

method
apparatus
evaluating
structural
weakness
polymer
matrix
composites
weaknesses
described
studied
illuminated
laser
radiation
fluorescence
emanating
therefrom
collected
filtered
imaged
image
determine
intensity
surface
wavelength
maximum
fluorescent
images
provide
map
integrity
particularly
created
exposure
heat
readily
visible
matrix composites
laser radiation
structural integrity
polymer matrix
fluorescence intensity
matrix composite
structural weakness
evaluating structural
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