Next-Generation Sensor Technology Improves Aircraft Materials Characterization Published June 15, 2009 By Heyward Burnette Materials & Manufacturing Directorate WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- Researchers from AFRL, Northrop Grumman, and Universal Technology Corporation developed an advanced technology that provides the Air Force a useful new capability for nondestructively assessing the performance--and quickly quantifying the degradation--of materials located beneath the outer layers (i.e., topcoat) of military aircraft. The first-of-its-kind materials characterization technology comprises a handheld, nondestructive evaluation based measurement and maintenance sensor system. Conceived under the Next-Generation Sensor program, the portable new sensor interrogates and measures the electrical properties of specialty materials positioned under thick ceramic tiles. The NGS program effectively demonstrated the advanced sensor technology in a laboratory setting, culminating in successful fabrication of two prototypes for testing and evaluation aboard operational aircraft. The NGS program's primary goal was to devise a through-tile measurement capability (via handheld NDE tool) for measuring the specialty material under thick thermal protective coatings. The team focused on researching and developing a system design concept meeting program requirements, designing and fabricating reference coupons and standards, creating a prototype hardware and software system, and evaluating prototype system performance in laboratory and on-aircraft environments. By the conclusion of this effort, the team had delivered two NGS prototypes for testing and evaluation on operational aircraft. Through the combined efforts of AFRL and industry, the NGS program met all established requirements and effectively demonstrated the new system's capabilities. The subsequent transition of this advanced sensor technology will ultimately support the warfighter through improved maintenance practices and enhanced mission readiness.