Source | Axalp Technologies

Axalp Technologies (Olten, Switzerland) recently completed the main R&D phase of its collaborative iSurface composite material health monitoring research project with partners Munro Technology Ltd. (Yeovil, U.K.), Z Prime (London, U.K.), and University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland (FHNW). Examples of iSurface technology applied to composite parts were exhibited at JEC World 2026 (March 10-12, Paris, France).

Composites are prone to damage by low velocity impacts that can cause hard to detect, barely visible impact damage (BVID). Acting as an embedded early warning system, iSurface can reportedly reduce the risk of catastrophic failure for aerospace structures subject to impact including leading edges, inlets and propeller blades, the latter a fast-growing application in advanced air mobility (AAM) and unmanned aerial systems (UAS)/drones.

Download the October 2025 white paper to access analysis, test protocols and integration guidance including:

• Problem context: Vulnerability of CFRP to low-velocity impacts and barely visible impact damage (BVID).
• Material innovation: iTex conductive fiber interleaf enabling an embedded sensing lattice with minimal weight impact.
• Diagnostics layer: AI-based interpretation of signals for impact characterization, localization and remaining-life indication.
• Large-area redundancy: Distributed network maintains sensing coverage when a local region is damaged.
• Mechanical performance: Representative uplift up to +87% (Mode I) and +244% (Mode II); test conditions and methods detailed.
• Integration pathways: Co-cure, retrofit to skin, and primer/paint-layer options; implications for condition-based maintenance and certification roadmap (2027–28).

The iSurface project is part of an Anglo-Swiss research investment program co-funded by Innosuisse and Innovate UK. Read more in Axalp Technologies’ LinkedIn post.