Carbon nanotube networks: Sensing of distributed strain and damage for life prediction and self healing

Conducting carbon nanotube networks formed in an epoxy polymer matrix can be utilized as highly sensitive in situ sensors for detecting the onset, nature, and evolution of damage in advanced polymer-based composites using direct-current measurements (see figure). These results hold promise for evaluation of autonomic self-healing approaches for polymers and for the development of enhanced life-prediction methodologies.