A printed piezoelectric sensor can detect impacts and vibration and convert them into electrical signals. The printed piezoelectric sensors consist of a 3-layer structure, which consists of a bottom electrode, a piezoelectric layer, and a top electrode. The bottom and top electrodes are made by printing silver paste onto a flexible substrate. Between the electrodes, the piezoelectric material layer is printed using a piezoelectric paste. When the sensor is compressed or stretched, the piezoelectric material generates a small electrical voltage, which can be measured and used to determine the strength and duration of the applied impact force or vibration. These sensors are widely used in industrial and medical applications, as well as in consumer electronics such as touchscreens and force-sensitive buttons.
As is done in the MORPHO project, printed piezoelectric sensors can be used in fiber composite materials to monitor the structural health and integrity of the composite. The sensors can be printed on or integrated into the composite during the manufacturing process and can be used to detect changes in strain, stress, and damage in the material.
Printed piezoelectric sensors have a variety of potential uses in aeronautics. Some examples include:
- Structural Health Monitoring: Printed piezoelectric sensors can be used to detect and monitor structural deformation, damage, or fatigue in aircraft, helping to ensure the safety and reliability of the aircraft.
- Engine health monitoring: Printed piezoelectric sensors can be used to monitor the vibration of aircraft engines, providing early warning of potential issues and helping to prevent costly engine failures.
- Control surfaces: Printed piezoelectric sensors can be used in the control surfaces of aircraft such as flaps, ailerons, and elevators, for impact detection.
Overall, the use of printed piezoelectric sensors in aeronautics can help to improve the safety, efficiency, and performance of aircrafts.