Research and development of plastic optical fiber based smart transparent concrete
Smart Sensor Phenomena, Technology, Networks, and Systems 2009 7293, 72930F, 2009
Energy saving and safety evaluation are two key issues for infrastructure. In this paper, the development of a novel smart
transparent concrete using plastic optical fiber (POF) and Fiber
Bragg Grating (FBG) is discussed, along with its transparent and smart sensing properties. The experimental results show that an optical fiber can be easily combined with concrete and that the POF could provide a steady light transmitting ratio. Moreover, the FBG can be used as a sensing element for strain and temperature. This paper also discusses the mechanical effects of introducing POF into concrete specimens. Because the smart transparent concrete can be regarded as a "green" energy saving construction material and as a smart intrinsic sensor for long-term Structural Health Monitoring (SHM), it is a promising technology for field applications in civil infrastructure.