Composite structures are gaining popularity as construction materials; and an indicator of this phenomenon could be the application of composites for aircraft. While such materials have many advantages, including low weight and high stiffness, they pose a real challenge for inspection and maintenance personnel. Recently, large research efforts have been undertaken to address the challenge. The Center for Quality Engineering and Failure Prevention at Evanston, Illinois, US-based Northwestern University together with Silver Spring, Maryland, US-based Imperium company have worked jointly on an inspection system that would be able to detect and image defects in composite structures. The solution is based on ultrasonic examination principles and combines A-scan (received signal strength as a function of time) data representation with horizontal ultrasonic imaging system.
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