Development of a constitutive model for nanocomposite sensor applications

• Grant number: 25/11188-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Doctorate
• Start date: August 31, 2025
• End date: February 28, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Mechanical Engineering - Mechanics of Solids
• Principal Investigator: Samuel da Silva
• Grantee: Eduardo Preto
• Supervisor: Chevallier
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Engenharia (FEIS). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Ilha Solteira. Ilha Solteira , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: Centre De Recherche De L'École De L'Air, France
• Associated to the scholarship: 25/01541-2 - Development and Application of Nanocomposites Sensors for Structural Health Monitoring, BP.DR

Abstract

Eduardo Preto's ongoing thesis proposes a novel SHM approach using nanocomposites to detect torque variations in bolted joints and crack propagation in metallic structures. Two resistive sensors were developed: a flexible rubber-based composite with carbon nanotubes and carbon black for torque detection via piezoresistivity, and a rigid PVB film with ITO nanowires for crack monitoring, where resistance changes through nanowire rearrangement and failure. These sensors enable static damage assessment, offering a simpler alternative to traditional dynamic methods. Although initial results are promising, numerical modeling is required to guide sensor integration and define their constitutive behavior-an effort to be addressed during the BEPE internship. This proposal outlines the motivation, the research plan's current stage, and the internship's expected benefits.