Application of Fiber-Optic Sensors to Monitor Concrete Dams: A Case Study
Source abstract
Abstract
Fiber-Optic Sensors (FOSs) offer unprecedented performance for Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) of concrete dams, addressing the critical need for robust instrumentation. This study evaluates the capabilities of Raman-type Distributed Fiber-Optic Sensors (DFOSs) and Bragg grating-type Localized Fiber-Optic Sensors (LFOSs) for concrete temperature monitoring in a case study. Raman-type DFOSs offer superior spatial resolution and comprehensive thermal mapping, enabling the detection of detailed thermal phenomena, such as the cooling effects of dam galleries and significant thermal gradients, that conventional technologies cannot capture. They are also easier and faster to install, as they do not require trench construction. However, monitoring data acquisition can be more expensive with Raman-type DFOSs. Bragg-type LFOSs offer reliable localized measurements analogous to conventional thermometers. A key benefit is their multiplexing capability, which significantly reduces the total number of cables needed, making a complete LFOS-based monitoring system easier and potentially cheaper to install than an equivalent conventional system, even though individual LFOS installation still requires trenches. Overall, both FOS technologies are effective and reliable for concrete dam temperature monitoring, providing data quality comparable to conventional sensors and representing a significant advancement for SHM systems.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline
Research context
OpenAlex topics: Advanced Fiber Optic Sensors · Dam Engineering and Safety · Concrete Properties and Behavior
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
Affiliations
Department of Civil Engineering: Hydraulics, Energy and Environment, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, C/ Profesor Aranguren 3, 28040 Madrid, Spain
Center for Intelligent and Sustainable Civil Infrastructure (CIVILis), Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, C/Alfonso XII, 3 & 5, 28014 Madrid, Spain
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