Aircraft Structural Diagnostic and Prognostic Health Monitoring for Corrosion Prevention and Control

Structural health monitoring (SHM) systems that provide diagnostic and prognostic information on corrosion-related damage will enable maintainers and operators of aircraft to manage the prevention and control of corrosion in aircraft structural components on a condition basis rather than on elapsed number of (flying) hours. This article discusses the key elements associated with such a system, viz., corrosion sensors, environment monitors, corrosion-prediction models, system architecture, and maintenance decisions. The article gives a brief overview of current demonstrators. It is envisaged that SHM systems will assist aircraft maintainers and operators in making decisions as to whether corroded components should be repaired, replaced, or may be treated and left in place until a more convenient inspection period.