The DETOX project focuses on new ultrasound inspection methods for Structural Health Monitoring (SHM). Standard PZT ceramics are efficient but limited by toxicity, rigidity, and design constraints. The project instead develops transducers using lead-free P(VDF-TrFE) polymer, which is thin, light, flexible, and adaptable to different structures. The aim is to design optimized organic transducer arrays to detect, locate, and identify defects more effectively. Two approaches are studied: one using direct wave-defect interaction and one using reverberated acoustic fields. A machine learning metamodel trained with multiphysics simulations supports optimization. Fabrication will rely on advanced screen-printing and spraying techniques. The concept will be validated with two demonstrators: an Airbus A380 nacelle and a hydrogen tank. Four partners share the work: IMS (transducer fabrication), I2M (imaging and arrays optimization), PIMM (numerical modeling and acoustic expertise), and CETIM (industrial perspective and composite structures).
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DETOX
The project develops advanced ultrasound inspection systems for SHM. Instead of toxic, rigid PZT ceramics, it uses flexible, lead-free P(VDF-TrFE) polymer transducers. These are optimized through AI-based multiphysics simulations and innovative printing techniques. Two detection methods are tested: direct wave-defect interaction and reverberated acoustic fields. Validation will take place on an Airbus A380 nacelle and a hydrogen tank.
