Real-time detection of loosening torque in bolted joints using piezoresistive pressure-sensitive layer based on multi-walled carbon nanotubes reinforced epoxy nanocomposites
File(s)
Published version
Author(s)
Sanli, Abdulkadir
Demirkale, Bilgehan
Kanoun, Olfa
Type
Journal Article
Abstract
Bolted connections are extensively used in construction and machine design, playing critical roles in various industrial applications. Bolts and screws are, however, prone to loosening or separating due to factors such as shock, vibration, and temperature fluctuations. This self-loosening phenomenon poses a considerable challenge to the reliability of bolted connections, necessitating regular inspections to ensure their safety. In this study, we report a cost-effective technique for monitoring bolted joint loosening torque: BoltWISE (Bolt loosening detection with innovative sensors). BoltWISE employs an innovative sensor element consisting of a piezoresistive, pressure-sensitive layer made from multi-walled carbon nanotube/epoxy nanocomposites coated onto an FR4 substrate, functioning as a washer. Our approach provides high sensitivity, durability, linearity, and fast response times, with minimal hysteresis during both the tightening and loosening processes. Finite-element method simulations were conducted to determine the optimal sensor positions, ensuring fast response during bolt tightening and loosening. Our findings highlight BoltWISE as a promising, low-cost solution for efficiently detecting bolt loosening in industrial environments. Its ease of implementation and fabrication make it a valuable tool for improving safety and maintenance practices across various industries.
Date Issued
2025-02-09
Date Acceptance
2025-02-04
Citation
Scientific Reports, 2025, 15
ISSN
2045-2322
Publisher
Nature Portfolio
Journal / Book Title
Scientific Reports
Volume
15
Copyright Statement
© The Author(s) 2025 Open Access This article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, which permits use, sharing, adaptation, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, as long as you give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the source, provide a link to the Creative Commons licence, and indicate if changes were made. The images or other third party material in this article are included in the article’s Creative Commons licence, unless indicated otherwise in a credit line to the material. If material is not included in the article’s Creative Commons licence and your intended use is not permitted by statutory regulation or exceeds the permitted use, you will need to obtain permission directly from the copyright holder. To view a copy of this licence, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/.
License URL
Identifier
10.1038/s41598-025-89290-9
Subjects
Bolt-loosening
Smart washer
Multi-walled carbon nanotubes
Pressure sensing
Epoxy resin
Piezoresistivity
Structural health monitoring
Publication Status
Published
Article Number
4830
Date Publish Online
2025-02-09