Ceramic based SHM modules for rough environment

Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) systems enable to permanently monitor the health of structural components. We introduce a new concept of SHM transducers based on ceramic multilayers. This approach allows for a tremendous improvement of robustness against environmental influences as well as integration of electronic components for signal processing. The so-called LTCC/PZT modules are prepared by laminating fired PZT ceramic discs with LTCC green layers and subsequent sintering. Experimental results on transducer properties will be presented and compared to FEM modeling.