Fibre optic sensors in civil engineering structures

Abstract

This paper presents an overview of the development and application of ISIS fibre optic sensor (FOS) technology by the University of Toronto Institute for Aerospace Studies and Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. The primary focus of this technology has involved the use of fibre Bragg gratings (FBGs) to measure strain and temperature in concrete structures and fibre reinforced plastic (FRP) overwraps applied to concrete structures. A brief review of existing fibre optic sensor configurations and the advantages of using FOS compared to other strain sensors is first presented. Subsequently, the development of new sensor concepts such as a long gauge of arbitrary length, a distributed gauge for measuring local strain gradients, and multiple FBGs on a single fibre optic cable are discussed, with examples of their application to civil engineering structures. In addition, the specialized instruments under development that are essential for obtaining strain information from these sensors are also described. Finally, the issue of wireless remote monitoring of FOS systems is addressed.Key words: fibre optic sensors, Bragg gratings, civil engineering structures, instrumentation.