K. Kranjc, J. C. Fielding, Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratories, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH; T. Gibson, University of Dayton Research Institute, Dayton, OH
Since composite materials are becoming increasingly integrated into aircraft structures, the need has arisen for a conductive composite that can disperse the charge incurred from a lightning strike with minimal to no damage to the composite itself. Nanomaterials with a high aspect ratio are electrically conductive as well as lightweight, which makes them ideal for integration into aircraft structures. Various conductive nanomaterials such as single-wall nanotube and multi-wall nanotube buckypapers and nickel nanostrand veils and films have thus been added to a traditional composite lay-up along with macro conductive materials such as nickel-coated carbon fibers and expanded copper mesh. The conductive composite panels were fabricated using a resin transfer molding process, and these panels were then lightning-strike-tested using a 100 kA current. The lightning strike test results including damage depth and damage area analysis using ultrasonic scan, X-ray, and optical microscopy will be presented as well as electrical conductivity test results using 4-point probe method. Correlation between the lightning strike results and electrical conductivity will be made.
Summary: Comparison and evaluation of nano and macro-enhanced polymeric composites for lightning strike protection applications will be presented.
