Center for Photonics and 2D Materials MIPT: Sensor for measuring shock waves

2026: Shock Wave Sensor Announcement

Researchers at the Center for Photonics and 2D Materials MIPT have developed a sensor to measure shock waves that responds 10 times faster than existing commercial counterparts. The development contributes to the creation of more advanced hypersonic and aircraft will increase safety industrial objects. The work is published in the prestigious international journal Sensors & Actuators: A. Physical. This was announced on January 23, 2026 by the press service of MIPT.

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Фото: MIPT

As reported, scientists have created a composite material that combines the flexibility of the polymer with the strength and heat resistance of ceramics. For the first time in the world, a composite based on polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and MAX-phase ceramics, layered materials that, like ceramics, withstand high temperatures and, like metals, conduct current, was used to detect shock waves.

MAX phases are an amazing class of materials. It was their unique layered structure, combining the strength of ceramics and the conductivity of metals, that made this breakthrough possible. The introduction of Ti₃AlC₂ (a compound of titanium, aluminum and carbon) into the polymer matrix allowed us to radically increase the thermal stability and durability of the sensor without sacrificing its properties. told Alexander Xu, Chief Researcher, Center for Photonics and Two-Dimensional Materials, MIPT, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences

The integration of MAX-phase particles into the polymer matrix made it possible to create a composite film with a thickness of only 90 μm, which remains functional even at instantaneous design temperatures exceeding 350 ° C.

Tests in a supersonic shock tube at speeds up to Mach 1.77 (above the speed of sound) showed optimal results.

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Фото: MIPT

The creation of a sensor capable of withstanding repeated supersonic shocks without loss of sensitivity was a major challenge due to abrupt temperature fluctuations. The integration of the MAX phase ensured the necessary structural integrity. As a result, we have a sensor that not only withstands these extreme conditions, but also reacts to them much faster than commercial counterparts. reported by K. Zaman Khan, MIPT PhD student, first author of the study

The development is of interest for the aerospace industry, where accurate monitoring of aerodynamic loads at hypersonic speeds is required, as well as for industrial safety systems in the energy and chemical sectors.

According to scientists, their development is an example of how fundamental research of materials is transformed into specific engineering solutions. The solution is ready for implementation to ensure infrastructure security in extreme conditions.

The study was carried out with the support of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation.