Detection and Tracking Damage in Composite Structures Elements

Use of next generation materials in construction of racing yachts pushes the limits of performance under extreme conditions. Light yet durable carbon masts can be built higher without a need to increase diameter which minimizes the effect of the mast on the change of the speed of flow around and distortion. At cost of these benefits, inherent features of the carbon material generate problems during production and mast operation. Our work aims at developing reliable diagnostics tools for carbon yacht poles, which are be capable of providing information about construction defects and damages occurring in the course of operation.