Fabrication of a piezoelectric strain sensor based on SbSI nanowires as a structural element of a FRP laminate

A research procedure involving the fabrication of deformation sensors integrated into a FRP (fiber reinforced polymer) laminate structure is presented in this manuscript. The sensors were made from a nanocomposite based on epoxy resin and antimony sulfur iodide (SbSI) nanowires. The nanocomposite was applied as an active layer, locally placed in the laminate structure. The piezoelectric performance of the sensors was evaluated by nondestructive bending tests. The obtained electrical characteristics showed that the sensor response allows us to determine both the deformation rate and the strain of the material. This gives a potential use for these types of sensors in structure monitoring systems. The presence of a sensor in the laminate's structure does not cause a significant decrease in the mechanical performance of the material.