Introduction

The invention developed consists in realizing anti-vibration systems with particular polymers loaded with carbon particles (nanotubes or graphene) which allow the devices themselves to also provide indications about the state of the vibration. This self-sensing capability is made possible by the electrical impedance variation of the anti-vibration system in the face of a deformation imposed on the device following the vibration of the machine.

Technical features

The invention (TRL 4) consists in adding the ability to independently measure a state of stress to the anti-vibration systems. This behavior is obtained from the introduction into the mixture of carbon particles capable of conferring electrical conductivity capacity to the polymer itself. When the anti-vibration system is compressed, the carbon particles move closer together reducing the electrical impedance of the anti-vibration system. Conversely, when the material is extended the particles move away increasing the electrical impedance of the system. This allows you to have an indirect measurement of the vibration state of the machine (typically associated with malfunction conditions), simply by reading the voltage at the ends of the anti-vibration system.

Possible Applications

• Vibration isolation and, in particular, the use of all operating machines.

Advantages

• Machinery malfunction identification;
• Indirect measurement of the vibration state of the machine.