Thermomechanical calibration of FBG sensors for aerospace applications

Abstract

Optical fibers have found widespread use in engineering, from communication to sensors. Among them, Fiber Bragg Gratings are allowed to detect several parameters. Scope of this work is to assess their performances as temperature and mechanical strain sensors for aerospace: in this regard, an experimental calibration is discussed. Then, alternative approaches are tested in order to distinguish thermal from mechanical contributes. This is first addressed by using a hybrid system of digital and optical sensors, and then then with a fully optical system. Both the presented solutions reached the scope. A concept of a third, innovative approach, is also described.