Strain Sensing Smart Skin (S4) is an ultra-thin and transparent coating on structural surface creating a responsive skin that can sense strain and enable full-field strain mapping.
We are pioneering the next generation strain sensors, dedicated to enhancing the safety and longevity of structures with our S4 technology. Our goal is to provide industries with reliable, real-time data, enabling condition-based maintenance, preventing structural failures, and revolutionizing structural testing and health monitoring.
Our Technology
S4 leverages single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) as microscopic strain sensors, embedded in a specialized polymer coating.
When a SWCNT is strained, its carbon atoms move systematically and change the electronic band gap. This effect shifts the wavelength of the nanotube's near-infrared emission peak proportionally to the strain. Each nanotube can act as a tiny, optically monitored strain gauge.
We disperse nanotubes in a polymer and air-brush onto the specimen to form a submicron thin film that can sense strain. By directing a laser beam onto the film and taking hyperspectral images of the resulting nanotube fluorescence, our method can swiftly and accurately measure high-resolution, full-field 2D strain maps of the structure.
Discover our upcoming services
Sensor Manufacturing
We specialize in the precision manufacturing of advanced strain sensors, utilizing cutting-edge materials and processes to ensure high performance and reliability.
Strain Measurement for Material Testing
Our comprehensive material testing services evaluate the properties and behavior of various materials under stress, helping study material properties, optimize product performance and safety..
Strain Measurement for Structural Testing
We offer structural component testing to assess the strength and durability of components under different load conditions, ensuring they meet rigorous safety and quality standards.
Measurement Examples
CONCRETE
Concrete is the second-most-used substance in the world after water. It offers substantial strength and longevity to buildings, and bridges. As a heterogeneous material, the fracture characteristics of concrete are difficult to predict. S4 clearly revealed the distribution of microcracks around the cavity in the concrete specimen caused by compression.
METAL
Metal is a foundational material in many engineering and construction projects due to its strength, durability, and versatility. This is the residual strain around a hole on an aluminum bar. The load was applied in horizontal direction and beyond the yielding strength. The strain concentration around the hole is revealed by S4 in the shape of four lobes.
SUBSURFACE DAMAGE
Surface strain can also reflect internal changes within the structure. The strain map in the figure shows the residual strain distribution of an aluminum bar with 1/3 depth damage on one side after being subjected to tension. From the strain map, the size and location of the damage can be clearly detected.
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