High-frequency eddy current based impedance spectroscopy for characterization of the percolation process of wet conductive coatings

Coatings based on wet particles containing pastes are currently used in many industries, such as automotive, aircraft and/or wind-power plants, to protect carbon-fiber reinforced plastic against damages caused by electrical effects, such as a lightning strike. In order to understand and control the percolation behavior during the drying, a non-contact Eddy Current based Impedance Spectroscopy can be used. This technique can be applied in the wet state of the coating and it works non-destructively. Percolation behaviors of the wet conductive coatings are strongly affected by the type of particles used as a filling and the thickness of the coating. Experimental results of Eddy Current measurements on wet conductive coatings based on different conductive particles and deposited with different thicknesses are discussed. Based on High-Frequency Eddy Current measurements, a prognosis of the coating parameters after final curing during the wet state becomes conceivable. This, for example, offers a wide opportunity for process control and repairs.