Distributed fibre-optic strain sensors
The development of distributed fibre-optic strain sensors has resulted in new techniques for monitoring structures and infrastructure such as foundations, embankments and tunnel linings. They offer the opportunity for cost-effectively sensing strain and temperature with a spatial resolution of around 1 metre using conventional fibre-optic cable, either attached to or embedded in a structure. Bending in the cable creates strain in the fibre which can be measured with a fibre optic analyser using the BOTDR (Brillouin Optical Time Domain Reflectometer) or BOTDA (Brillouin Optical Time Domain Analysis) technique. There is no wiring and no electromagnetic interference.
Distributed fibre-optic strain sensors can be used for:
- The measurement of strain in foundations.
- Failure prediction in tunnels and bridges.
- The measurement of strain in oil, gas, and water pipelines.
- Monitoring embankments to predict landslides.
- Measuring structural deformation in nuclear facilities.
Crucial to the effectiveness of this technique of monitoring is the method of attachment to structures. It is important to avoid unintentional twisting or damage to the fibre optic cable and to make sure that the sensor does not creep from attachment points, producing measurement errors. This involves not only the selection of suitable attachment technologies, but also appropriate installation training.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
[edit] External references
- Cambridge Smart Infrastructure and Construction (CSIC), Distributed fibre-optic strain sensors.
Featured articles and news
HBPT and BEAMS Jubilees. Book review.
Does the first Labour budget deliver for the built environment?
What does the UK Budget mean for electrical contractors?
Mixed response as business pays, are there silver linings?
A brownfield housing boost for Liverpool
A 56 million investment from Homes England now approved.
Fostering a future-ready workforce through collaboration
Collaborative Futures: Competence, Capability and Capacity, published and available for download.
Considerate Constructors Scheme acquires Building A Safer Future
Acquisition defines a new era for safety in construction.
AT Awards evening 2024; the winners and finalists
Recognising professionals with outstanding achievements.
Reactions to the Autumn Budget announcement
And key elements of the quoted budget to rebuild Britain.
Chancellor of the Exchequer delivers Budget
Repairing, fixing, rebuilding, protecting and strengthening.
Expectation management in building design
Interest, management, occupant satisfaction and the performance gap.
Connecting conservation research and practice with IHBC
State of the art heritage research & practice and guidance.
Innovative Silica Safety Toolkit
Receives funding boost in memory of construction visionary.
Gentle density and the current context of planning changes
How should designers deliver it now as it appears in NPPF.
Sustainable Futures. Redefining Retrofit for Net Zero Living
More speakers confirmed for BSRIA Briefing 2024.
Making the most of urban land: Brownfield Passports
Policy paper in brief with industry responses welcomed.
The boundaries and networks of the Magonsæte.