Use of polymer-based sensors for monitoring the static and dynamic response of a cantilever composite beam

Abstract

The static and dynamic response of a cantilever composite beam was investigated using polymer-based sensors. Polymeric materials which exhibit optical properties such as PMMA are being used to produce plastic optical fibers (POF). The POF and the PVDF film were bonded to the composite beam using a cyanoacrylate adhesive. The composite beam was subjected to initial deflection, and its free vibration response were monitored using POF and PVDF sensors. The results illustrate the potential of using POF-PVDF sensors for monitoring low frequency loading conditions in load-bearing structures.