Holographic approach to detection of delamination areas in layered polymeric waveguides by means of strain solitons

Abstract

Laminated structures are increasingly used nowadays in a wide variety of constructions. The proper functioning of such structures has vital importance especially in automotive and aerospace industries. The major problem in their behavior is a possibility of a sudden and irreversible delamination caused by various factors. We propose and study a NDT approach to investigate the dynamics of prolonged layered structures based on the propagation and optical (holographic) detection of bulk strain solitons in them. Results on experimental observation of the evolution of bulk solitary waves in polymeric 2-and 3-layered waveguides with glassy and rubber-like adhesives used for bonding are discussed. Variations of soliton amplitude were shown to demonstrate the existence of delamination areas. The formation of complex wave patternssoliton trains or radiating solitons became an additional evidence of defects in layered waveguides.