The project, which began in the autumn of 2024, consists of an experimental part where samples are tested to characterise the material properties of the hybrid composites from different aspects. Measurements are made with sensors that are integrated into the material.
"This project strengthens the collaboration between LiU, Saab and KTH in composite materials research. We need to study the durability, damage tolerance and lifespan of the composite materials to know how we can use them in different contexts", says Mohamed Sahbi Loukil, assistant professor at Linköping University.
Aviation sector
Systematic characterisation of material properties, the material's structural behavior and the development of hybridisation methods are expected to contribute to the industrialisation of hybrid composites and built-in sensors in the aviation sector − and thereby a more efficient use of the composite materials.
The project is coordinated by Dr. Zlatan Kapidzic, adjunct professor at LiU and Technical Fellow in the field of fatigue and damage tolerance at Saab AB. Other members of the consortium are from Linköping University (LiU) and the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH).
“Through this work, we aim to develop a strong understanding of hybrid composite materials and their behavior under various thermal and mechanical conditions," says Zlatan Kapidzic, the project coordinator.
Method development
The duration of the project is four years and the total cost is SEK 8 million, of which SEK 4 million is financed by Vinnova within the call for Strengthened Swedish aviation research and innovation - NFFP8.
The project focuses on the development of experimental and analytical methods to characterise the thermomechanical behavior of hybrid glass/carbon fiber composites, as well as the development of experimental measurement technology, based on integrated sensors with carbon nanotubes (CNT), and its application to hybrid composites.
Implementation
The project consists of an experimental part where samples are tested under thermal and mechanical loads to characterise the material properties of the hybrid composites from different aspects and where measurements are made with integrated sensors. Test data is used as a basis for the development of methods and models for strength assessment.
