ASTM International

Standard Guide for Nondestructive Testing of Polymer Matrix Composites Used in Aerospace Applications
 N E2533

Annotation

This guide provides information to help engineers select appropriate nondestructive testing (NDT) methods to characterize aerospace polymer matrix composites (PMCs). This guide does not intend to describe every inspection technology. Rather, emphasis is placed on established NDT methods that have been developed into consensus standards and that are currently used by industry. Specific practices and test methods are not described in detail, but are referenced. The referenced NDT practices and test methods have demonstrated utility in quality assurance of PMCs during process design and optimization, process control, after manufacture inspection, inservice inspection, and health monitoring.

This guide does not specify accept-reject criteria and is not intended to be used as a means for approving composite materials or components for service.

This guide covers the following established NDT methods as applied to polymeric matrix composites: Acoustic Emission, Computed Tomography, Leak Testing, Radiography, Radioscopy, Shearography, Strain Measurement (contact methods), Thermography, Ultrasound, and Visual NDT.

The value of this guide consists of the narrative descriptions of general procedures and significance and use sections for established NDT methods as applied to polymer matrix composites. Additional information is provided about the use of currently active standard documents (an emphasis is placed on applicable standard guides, practices, and test methods of ASTM Committee E07 on Nondestructive Testing), geometry and size considerations, safety and hazards considerations, and information about physical reference standards.

To ensure proper use of the referenced standard documents, there are recognized NDT specialists that are certified in accordance with industry and company NDT specifications. It is recommended that a NDT specialist be a part of any composite component design, quality assurance, in-service maintenance or damage examination.