Session: 01-05-03: Data-Driven Design and Optimization of Aerospace Structures Using AI/ML

Paper Number: 183355

183355 - Vibration Analysis of SMA-Embedded Glass Fiber Composites 

Vibrations are oscillations that, while sometimes useful in engineering applications, can also be detrimental, leading to unwanted noise or premature failure due to cyclic loading and stress. Fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composites have become attractive materials across various industries such as aerospace, automotive, marine, and robotics, owing to their high strength-to-weight ratio and superior damping capacity compared to traditional isotropic materials like aluminum and steel. Shape memory alloys (SMAs), known for their unique thermo-mechanical behavior, present additional opportunities for vibration control when embedded into these composite systems. This study explores the incorporation of SMA wires into polymer composites reinforced with randomly oriented and plain-weave glass fabrics, and evaluate the effect of active and partially active damping provided by SMA wires on the dynamic response of composite laminates. A custom control circuit is designed to monitor SMA wire temperature using thermocouples and regulate current to prevent overheating, with validation via a Fluke thermal camera. The samples are excited using an impact hammer, and their vibrational response, frequency and amplitude, are measured with a Scanning Laser Doppler Vibrometer. Results show that the type of reinforcing fiber strongly influences vibrational behavior, demonstrating the potential of SMA-integrated FRP composites with active wires to achieve enhanced vibration attenuation compared to laminates without wire activation.

Presenting Author: Maya Pishvar California State University Northridge

Presenting Author Biography: Dr. Maya Pishvar is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at California State University, Northridge. Her research focuses on polymer composites, architected materials, polymer intercalation, and smart and multifunctional materials, with an emphasis on understanding and tailoring structure–property relationships.