Center Smart Materials and Adaptive Systems CeSMA
Star-shaped arranged strain sensors for detecting the smallest strains in three surface directions.
CeSMA develops highly adapted strain sensors to detect defects, cracks and gaps that can occur on large surfaces. An example of this application are high-temperature furnaces where cracks in the furnace lining and the refractory wall can lead to inhomogeneous heat generation and increased energy consumption. In extreme cases, accidents in thermoprocessing plants can be prevented.
Dielectric elastomer sensors are modified in such a way that smallest changes in strain (µm) can be measured even at large distances (several m). The early detection of the smallest defects can be used for timely and targeted maintenance of the cladding.