UV Sensor Based on Fiber Bragg Grating Covered with Graphene Oxide Embedded in Composite Materials.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Composites
• Optical Sensing

Background:

• Polymer-matrix composites degrade under UV radiation (290-400 nm), leading to epoxy matrix aging and mechanical property decline.
• Glass fiber/epoxy resin composites were fabricated using an out-of-autoclave method with embedded fiber optic sensors.
• Microstructure analysis using scanning electron microscopy was employed to quantify epoxy resin microcracks.

Discussion:

• A fiber Bragg grating sensor, functionalized with graphene oxide, was embedded within the polymer composite.
• This sensor system effectively monitors ultraviolet radiation intensity, correlating with material degradation.
• The integration of optical sensors provides a method for in-situ monitoring of composite aging.

Key Insights:

• Graphene oxide-coated fiber Bragg grating sensors can detect UV radiation intensity.
• UV monitoring enables the assessment of polymer composite aging and potential microcrack formation.
• This technology facilitates real-time evaluation of material health and component lifespan.

Outlook:

• Further research can optimize sensor design for enhanced sensitivity and broader UV spectrum monitoring.
• Integration of this sensing technology into structural health monitoring systems for composites is feasible.
• This approach offers a pathway to predict and mitigate UV-induced degradation in advanced materials.