Research on Advanced NDE (Nondestructive Evaluation) Methods for Aerospace Structures.

Abstract

This report describes the development of new methods of ultrasonic nondestructive evaluation (NDE). Ultrasonic backscatter imaging and imaging using leaky surface waves are applied to locating defects in advanced fiber-reinforced composite materials. High speed digitizers are used to acquire the RF signals of interest and B-scan and C-scan images are generated using a high-precision, automated scanning system developed during this program. Defects such as matrix cracks, multi-level delaminations, ply cuts, and simulated porosity are identified in graphite/epoxy composite samples. Image analysis and digital image enhancement techniques are developed and applied to the digitized images to improve defect detection. Global and local spatial domain image operators are successful in improving spatial resolution and defect detection. Initial results of image segmentation efforts to isolate defects are encouraging.

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 01, 1987
Accession Number
ADA182199

Entities

People

  • Brian G. Frock
  • Edward L. Klosterman
  • Jeffery A. Fox
  • Richard W. Martin
  • Robert J. Andrews

Organizations

  • University of Dayton

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Composite Materials
  • Defect Detection
  • Detection
  • Digital Images
  • Epoxy Composites
  • Fiber Reinforced Composites
  • Graphitic Materials
  • Image Segmentation
  • Images
  • Laminates
  • Materials
  • Reinforced Plastics
  • Surface Waves
  • Test And Evaluation

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Computer Vision.
  • Radar Systems Engineering.
  • Reinforced Composite Materials

Technology Areas

  • Space