The application of optical fiber sensors in advanced fiber reinforced composites. Part 1: Introduction and issues

Advanced fiber reinforced composites (AFRCs) are a class of materials which are made up of a reinforcing phase and a matrix phase. The reinforcing phase can be short fibers or continuous fibers. Typical examples of fibers which are used include carbon, glass, silicon carbide and polyaramid. The matrix phase can be a thermoplastic, thermoset, ceramic or metal. A summary of selected properties for engineering materials is presented in Table 2.1. With reference to Table 2.1, it is readily apparent that the specific properties (property of interest divided by the density) of AFRCs are superior to those of other engineering materials. This makes AFRCs ideal materials for primary and secondary load-bearing applications where weight is at a premium. Hence there is extensive utilization for aerospace and other transport-based applications. The drive to reduce the overall weight of AFRCs has resulted in the development of hollow glass and carbon fibers.