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Completed TRL 4 (started at 2, targeting 4)
We propose to develop a piezoelectric sensors made of carbon nanotube and lead zirconium titanate (PZT) nanopower dispersed in a polymer matrix. These sensors will be flexible and able to be integrated between composite piles as well as adhered to the structure surfaces.
At the present time strain sensors used on structures require external wires to a computer in order to measure strain. Also these strain sensors are quite brittle. Another type of strain sensor is a fiber optic with Fiber Bragg gratings etched into the material. Again, this limits the sensor to initial proof testing of the structural article.
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This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.
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