Composite structure incorporating means for determination of its integrity or measurement of its properties after is has been subjected to strain or detrimental external effects such as heating

摘要

Assembly comprises a composite structure with a matrix (2) and a plurality of optical fibers (3, 5) embedded within the matrix. The fibers incorporate means for determination of data representative of their degree of intactness and for measuring their resistance to a strain or external effect applied to the fibers or structure. The determination means can be a detection fluid, means for detection of a physical phenomena associated with the fiber or be related to the electrical conductivity of a fiber. Alternately optical fibers can be incorporated or a hollow fiber suitable for pressure detection or gas detection methods can be used.