Parameters affecting the measurements of embedded electrical sensors for concrete health monitoring applications

F. Rajabipour, J. Weiss

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

3 Scopus citations

Abstract

Traditional methods of condition assessment frequently rely on manual inspections of a structure to locate signs of aging and deterioration. In comparison, the sensor-based health monitoring shows several advantages including increased accuracy and frequency of the measurements, possibility of remote sensing, and ability to determine the rate of damage and remaining life of a structure. Several sensors have been developed to monitor the durability of concrete. Among these, a series of electrical/electro-chemical sensors have been recently introduced that enable measuring the transport properties of concrete as well as monitoring the corrosion process of the reinforcing steel. In this paper, several types of such electricaL sensors are introduced and the theoretical background behind each measurement is discussed. For example, it is shown that measurement of the electrical conductivity of concrete can be used to estimate the permeability, ion diffusivity, or moisture content of concrete. Although the embedded electrical sensors provide valuable measurements enabling prediction of concrete durability, proper calibration of the measurements is essential. As an example, the electrical conductivity measurements of concrete are shown to be simultaneously influenced by four parameters: (a) concrete microstructure, (b) pore fluid composition, (c) moisture content, and (d) temperature. Experimental evidence is provided suggesting that the sensor measurements must be calibrated to account for these parameters; otherwise, the results can be misleading. A combination of several sensors can provide the information needed for proper calibration of the measurements.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationAmerican Concrete Institute - Health Monitoring Systems and Sensors for Assessing Concrete at the ACI 2008 Spring Convention
Pages7-22
Number of pages16
Edition252 SP
StatePublished - 2008
EventHealth Monitoring Systems and Sensors for Assessing Concrete- ACI 2008 Spring Convention - Los Angeles, CA, United States
Duration: Mar 30 2008Apr 3 2008

Publication series

NameAmerican Concrete Institute, ACI Special Publication
Number252 SP
ISSN (Print)0193-2527

Other

OtherHealth Monitoring Systems and Sensors for Assessing Concrete- ACI 2008 Spring Convention
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityLos Angeles, CA
Period3/30/084/3/08

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Building and Construction
  • General Materials Science

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