“Smart polyethylene-based composites with carbon nanomaterials for heating and sensing applications”

Project manager: dr inż. Marcin Godzierz
Implementation period: 01.12.2024 – 30.09.2027

The main goal of the proposed project is to design and develop a method of in situ monitoring of polymeric welded joints. For such purpose, the electrofusion welding technology for polyethylene parts with the application of polyethylene/nanocarbon composites as conductive insets will be used. Proposed conductive composites, as an integral part of welded joint, might be later used as piezoresistive sensors for structural health monitoring of welded joints, providing information about their deformation and potential destruction. Proper design of welded joint shape and conductive inset material will allow for prediction of the piezoresistive response of in situ sensors, depending on applied stress (considering tensile, compressive, bending and shear). In order to confirm such structural features, it is necessary to perform electrofusion welding on more complex shapes of welded joints. Economic aspect of both, sensing properties and welding parameters will also be investigated and optimized.