Detection and identification of damage in composite fibre/metal laminate structures using guided ultrasonic waves

The overarching aim of this PhD project is to develop structurally efficient fibre metal laminates, by investigating and improving the detection and characterisation of the relevant damage mechanisms using guided ultrasonic waves and numerical modelling. This will be done by creating a synergistic damage mechanics model to estimate the mechanisms that limit the ductility of these composite systems. The novel application of guided ultrasonic waves will then be used to conduct structural health monitoring of smart structures. This will allow detection and classification of defects including barely visible impact damage on the composite, leading to the development of layered fibre/metal composite systems that combine the high ductility and toughness of metals with the high stiffness and resilience of fibre reinforced composites. The scope of the project is in the following EPSRC research areas: 1) Materials engineering - composites, and 2) Performance and inspection of mechanical structures and systems.