Moisture Detecting Bleeder Material for Composite Repairs
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Solution Overview
Problem
During composite part repairs, detecting moisture ingress is challenging, as existing methods rely on assumptions rather than direct detection, which can lead to unsatisfactory adhesion and repair quality due to potential moisture presence.
Innovation Solution
The use of moisture detecting bleeder materials with a moisture absorption indicator that changes color upon exposure to moisture, applied in layers with a bagging film and subjected to vacuum conditions, allowing for evaluation of moisture removal and curing operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional drying methods are used before repair, then moisture removal is attempted, but moisture detection capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a moisture-sensitive indicator material that changes color in the presence of moisture. This visual color change provides direct, reliable moisture detection without requiring complex electronic sensors or measurement systems, thus improving detection reliability while maintaining simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator material acts as an intermediary between the moisture and the observer. Instead of directly measuring moisture content with complex instruments, the indicator material translates moisture presence into a visible color signal that can be easily detected by human eyes
2Productivity
If moisture is not detected during repair, then repair proceeds, but adhesion quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator material is applied to the composite part surface before the drying and repair operations. This preliminary placement allows the indicator to detect moisture that may be present or may ingress during subsequent operations, enabling detection before the repair is completed and adhesion is compromised
3Measurement precision
If visual inspection is used after drying, then moisture detection is attempted, but detection accuracy is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator material provides distinct color changes that clearly indicate moisture presence. This visual transformation enhances detection accuracy by providing an unambiguous signal that is easily distinguishable from the background, while maintaining the simplicity of visual inspection without requiring complex measurement equipment
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method provides a visual indication of moisture absorption, ensuring effective moisture removal and curing operations, thereby ensuring the quality of composite repairs by detecting moisture ingress and preventing unsatisfactory outcomes like porosity or adhesive joint issues.
Implementation Method 1
A color change of the moisture absorption indicator material from a first color to a second color is indicative of moisture absorption by the moisture absorption indicator material
Implementation Method 2
performing a moisture removal operation that includes applying a vacuum (e.g., a pressure that is less than an ambient pressure) to the fluid interface
Data Source
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AI summary
A moisture detecting bleeder material 102 includes a fiberglass material and a moisture absorption indicator material. The moisture absorption indicator material is a component of the fiberglass material and undergoes a color change from a first color to a second color when exposed to moisture. The color change may be thermally irreversible below a threshold temperature (e.g., below a temperature of about 232°C [450° F]).