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Podcast Folge zu structural health monitoring (SHM) in der Bauwerkserhaltung mit Dr. Yves Reuland

Structural Health Monitoring

with expert Dr. Yves Reuland from Irmos Technologies​

Structural Health Monitoring Episode Cover

Summary

Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) and laboratory investigations for the condition monitoring of structures. Listen to which technologies are used in SHM and how data from the sensors are used to obtain global assessments of the structural condition. Yves and Johannes emphasize the importance of probabilistic approaches and the challenges of implementing them in practice. They illustrate how SHM can contribute to a more sustainable construction industry.

Sensor Technologies

Continuous Sensor Technologies:
  • Structural Health Monitoring (global):
    • Fiber optic sensors: Measure strain over long distances.
    • Strain gauges: Measure local strains.
    • Accelerometers: Measure vibrations and dynamic behavior of structures.
  • Continuous concrete sensors (local):
    • Measure parameters such as temperature and moisture in concrete structures and provide continuous data on concrete curing and health.
Laboratory and On-Site-Testing Methods:
  • Non-Destructive Testing (NDT):
    • Ground Penetrating Radar: Used for detecting underground anomalies and voids.
    • Potential Field Measurement: Assesses the corrosion potential in reinforced concrete structures.
    • Ultrasonic Testing: Detects internal flaws and evaluates material properties.
  • Destructive Testing: Involves the extraction and analysis of material samples to understand properties and potential weaknesses.

Application and Data handling in SHM

Global Assessments:

  • Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) systems provide continuous monitoring and offer a global assessment of structural health.
  • Data from the sensors help understand whether the structure is behaving as expected or showing signs of deterioration. This can be particularly helpful after catastrophic events (shipwrecks, landslides, earthquakes, etc.).

Probabilistic Approaches:

  • Yves and Johannes emphasize the use of probabilistic methods to predict the behavior and lifespan of structures.
  • Through Structural Health Monitoring, building parameters can be more accurately determined, and renovations can be calculated and implemented more cost-effectively.
  • Probabilistic approaches aid in planning maintenance more effectively.

Challenges with SHM implementations

Practical Challenges:

  • Difficulties in integrating probabilistic approaches into practical applications.
  • Necessity of periodic recalibration and validation of Structural Health Monitoring systems.
  • For local sensors: Challenges in sensor placement and data interpretation, especially in heterogeneous materials like concrete.

Economic and Logistical Considerations:

  • Costs associated with the installation and maintenance of Structural Health Monitoring systems.
  • Interpretation of data and action planning at the structure and portfolio level.
  • Impacts of Structural Health Monitoring on traffic and infrastructure usage during installation and monitoring.

Sustainable Construction with SHM

Sustainability Aspects:

  • SHM aids in early detection of structural issues, preventing catastrophic failures and extending the lifespan of structures.
  • Efficient maintenance planning based on Structural Health Monitoring data reduces resource consumption and waste.
  • More accurate determination of existing structural properties protects against overdesign or unnecessary structural reinforcement.

Future Developments:

  • Ongoing research and projects like NTEC aim to optimize Structural Health Monitoring technologies and their application.
  • Development of comprehensive guidelines for the utilization of various Structural Health Monitoring methods based on specific structural and material conditions.

Conclusion

  • SHM is a crucial tool in modern construction and infrastructure management.
  • Through the utilization of advanced sensor technologies and probabilistic methods, Structural Health Monitoring provides valuable insights into structural health, contributing to safer and more sustainable construction practices.

Literature

Transkript Link

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