Daniel Porter
Jun 21, 2012
Featured

VIDEO - Nanotech strain paint

Rice University researchers recently revealed a means of detecting miniscule amounts of strain using carbon nanotubes. As described in the video, nanotubes are dispersed in a paint that is applied to surfaces. The researchers then shine a laser on the surface and detect the reflected light. By measuring changes in the reflected light from the painted surfaces, they are able to reconstruct how much strain, or deformation, the surface is experiencing. The researchers anticipate a wide range of applicability for this novel strain detection method, but see particular relevance in the aerospace industry for fault detection on flight surfaces.

1 Comments
Aurora SterlingJun 22, 2012
The applications for permanent structures are also exciting. Imagine being able to detect minute strain in bridges or buildings just as they begin.