Analysis of damage in composite laminates with embedded piezoelectric patches subjected to bending action
Smart materials offer the possibility of the integration of active functions into a composite primary structure. This work aim to investigate the impact of the incorporation of smart materials in a conventional composite laminate. Fiberglass specimens with and without PZT piezo elements embedded in the lamination stack are manufactured and then subjected to a four-point bending test. Together with the classical mechanical parameters, the operational behaviour of the piezo as sensor is monitored in terms of electrical capacity during test.