Title: Spatially continuous fully distributed microwave-photonic and coaxial cable sensors for structural health monitoring

Authors: Baokai Cheng; Liwei Hua; Wenge Zhu; Hai Xiao

Addresses: Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Center for Optical Materials Science and Engineering Technologies, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA ' Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Center for Optical Materials Science and Engineering Technologies, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA ' Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Center for Optical Materials Science and Engineering Technologies, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA ' Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Center for Optical Materials Science and Engineering Technologies, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA

Abstract: This report summarises our recent research progresses in developing new distributed sensing technologies for structural health monitoring (SHM) based on the new microwave-photonic and coaxial cable platforms. The two new platforms have the combined advantages of high measurement resolution, large strain capability, long span of coverage, easy-to-install/embed, spatial continuity (no dark zones), and flexible gauge lengths. The new distributed sensing technology may bring a revolutionary tool to address a number of insufficiently-studied areas in SHM, such as distributed monitoring of cracks and corrosion, post seismic monitoring to ensure mission-critical services in disaster responses and emergency evacuations, study of the progressive structural failures/collapses under extreme loads, and high performance smart structures.

Keywords: distributed sensor; microwave-photonics; coaxial cable; structure health monitoring; SHM.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSMSS.2018.097837

International Journal of Sustainable Materials and Structural Systems, 2018 Vol.3 No.2, pp.171 - 187

Accepted: 09 May 2018
Published online: 14 Feb 2019 *

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