PSI - Issue 69

Stefano Rodinò et al. / Procedia Structural Integrity 69 (2025) 20–25

23

instrumentation configuration comprises a pitot-static tube for velocity measurement, providing real-time flow characterization during experimental trials. Thermal activation control was achieved through a programmable power supply unit (AimTTi CPX400DP), enabling precise regulation of the activation current. Based on preliminary characterization studies, the maximum current (I max ) was established at 8A, ensuring complete shape recovery while preventing material degradation. This value was maintained constant throughout the experimental campaign to ensure consistency in the activation conditions.

Fig. 3. Experimental setup for wind tunnel trials. a) Reference grid for optical tracking. b) Wind tunnel test section overview.

3. Results and Discussion The experimental investigation systematically examined the shape morphing response of the active composite under varying flow conditions. Fig. 4 presents the deformed configurations of the composite specimen as observed during wind tunnel testing. The profiles were captured through optical tracking methodology at steady-state conditions following thermal activation.

Fig. 4. Experimental deformation profiles of the shape memory composite at different airflow velocities: a) static condition (0 km/h), b) 50 km/h, c) 75 km/h, d) 100 km/h, and e) 125 km/h.

The shape recovery characteristics exhibited a marked dependence on flow velocity. At the baseline condition (v = 0 km/h), the composite achieved a maximum tip deflection of 52.4 mm following complete thermal activation. This