Dynamic characterization of epoxy plate using OMA with free-free end conditions

Lightweight composite material is more preferable than metal and metal alloys in engineering applications however uncertainty in its failure prediction hinder widespread usage. Vibration response as damage detection is widely used however its usage on composite material is very restricted due to its nonlinear and non homogenous property. This paper attempts to utilize this method specifically operational modal analysis (OMA) on undamaged epoxy plate to extract the dynamic parameters and extend the procedure to damage detection on composite plate. To realize this, two experimental setups were implemented in this study which is based on epoxy plate positioning as free-free ends conditions i.e hung by bungee and place on sponge. Results of these experimental setups will be compared to establish modal parameters on undamaged epoxy plate. However, before investigating modal parameters of damaged epoxy plate, establishing modal parameters of undamaged epoxy plate is highly essential for damage detection purpose.