Artificial lightning strike tests on PRSEUS panels

The lightning damage resistance of Pultruded Rod Stitched Efficient Unitized Structure (PRSEUS) panels was characterized experimentally. Two unprotected PRSEUS panels were subjected to standard impulse current waveforms (consistent with actual lightning strikes) with 50, 125, and 200 kA nominal peak currents at a variety of panel locations. Lightning-induced damage to the PRSEUS panels was a strong function of (1) the peak current, (2) the lightning attachment location (mid-bay, stringer, frame, etc.) that involved different through-thickness Vectran™ stitching, and (3) the presence of a surface finish paint.