A brief review of modified conductive carbon/glass fibre reinforced composites for structural applications: Lightning strike protection, electromagnetic shielding, and strain sensing

Abstract

Abstract Multi-functional fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) laminates are the requirements of advanced aircraft structures. FRP laminates are the primary design to carry structural loads. However, improved/high electrically conductive FRP laminates can further use for multiple non-structural functions, including the lightning strike protection (LSP), self-sensing strain and damage sensor, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, and other future opportunities like signal communication, non-destructive inspection (NDI), actuation of structures. This review article discussed the various research articles that modify and improve the FRP laminates electrical conductivity for non-structural applications like lightning strike protection (LSP), EMI shielding, and strain/damage sensing. Different approaches like metal tufting/stitching, conductive resin, coating, and interleaves are discussed for LSP, whereas conductive resin, interleaves, and coating techniques were discussed for EMI shielding and strain/damage sensing. These approaches have their advantages and challenges, influencing the large-scale fabrication of the resulting composites. Therefore, it is crucial to understand these materials properties and fabrication processes for further development. For LSP developments, it is summarized that metal-tufting and PANI-based conductive resin can sufficiently resist lightning damage at high peak current. Additionally, PANI-based resin has proven theirs performs well in strain sensing and EMI shielding.