Monitoring Reinforced Concrete Structures Using Iron Thin Film Coated Optical Fibre Sensors

• Type: Article in International Conference Proceedings Book
• Date: 2024

Authors

Da Silva, M (Author) Other; Carvalho, PM (Author) Other; Mendes, P (Author) Other; de Almeida, JMMM (Author) FCUP; Coelho, CC (Author) FCUP

Conference proceedings International

Title: EPJ Web of Conferences

6th International Conference on Applications of Optics and Photonics, AOP 2024

Aveiro, 16 July 2024 through 19 July 2024

Indexing

Scopus - 0 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-017-A6J

DOI: 10.1051/epjconf/202430500024

Abstract (EN): Structural health monitoring (SHM) of reinforced concrete structures (RCS) is crucial for mitigating the consequences of their deterioration. By identifying and addressing the issues early, SHM helps reduce environmental impact, safeguard lives, and enhance economic resilience. Rebar corrosion is a leading cause of early RCS decay and optical fibre sensors (OFS) have been employed for its monitoring. Reflection optrodes using optical fibres where the tip is coated with iron (Fe) thin films offer a robust, long-lasting and straightforward solution. This study investigates the tracking of spectral changes during the Fe thin film corrosion, which has been neglected in the literature, in favour of tracking reflection changes from thin film spalling. A multimode fibre tip, coated with a thin Fe layer embedded in concrete, allows spectral changes to be observed during corrosion. A 100 nm thick Fe film was deposited using radio frequency magnetron sputtering on polished fibre tips. Corrosion was induced by applying salted water drops and allowing the fibre tip to dry. Corrosion monitoring was successful for both air-exposed and cement-embedded tips, with results compared to reflection simulations of Fe, Fe2O3, and Fe2O3 thin films. This study supports monitoring at different wavelengths, enhancing robustness, cost-effectiveness and earlier detection. © The Authors.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific