Self-sensing reinforced concrete for damage assessment and real time strength development in smart structures

Abstract

In this study, a self-sensing smart structure was developed with a novel approach. Electromagnetic wave based self-sensing structure designed by sending waves to the reinforced concrete structure through the reinforcement by using a coaxial cable. EM measurements were based on estimating the reflected EM waves through the reinforced concrete. Correlations between reflected EM wave, damage in reinforced concrete and strength development in concrete was estimated. According to test results, it was seen that with increasing crack width of reinforced concrete by applying monotonic load, reflection of EM wave through the reinforced concrete decreased. It was also seen that with strength development of the concrete, reflection of EM through the reinforced concrete increased. In the light of the findings of this study it can be said that, damage assessment and monitoring strength development of the reinforced concrete is possible in real time with applying the proposed novel technique.

Keywords:

• Self-sensing
• reinforced concrete
• damage assessment
• strength development
• electromagnetic

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Declarations

The authors certify that they have NO affiliations with or involvement in any organization or entity with any financial interest (such as honoraria; educational grants; participation in speakers’ bureaus; membership, employment, consultancies, stock ownership, or other equity interest; and expert testimony or patent-licensing arrangements), or non-financial interest (such as personal or professional relationships, affiliations, knowledge or beliefs) in the subject matter or materials discussed in this manuscript.

Data availability

All data, models, and code generated or used during the study appear in the submitted article.

Additional information

Funding

This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

Notes on contributors

Murat Ozturk

Murat Ozturk received the B.Sc. degree from Gaziantep University, Turkey, the M.Sc. and Ph.D. degree from Iskenderun Technical University, Turkey, all in Civil Engineering, in 2014, 2017, and 2021, respectively. He is currently working with Iskenderun Technical University, Hatay, Turkey. His research interests include EMI shielding, concrete, and smart materials.