Work

Utilizing 3D Printing and Distributed Optic Fiber to Achieve Temperature-Sensitive Concrete

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The distribution of temperature-induced cracks in mass concrete structures is extensive and random, making it difficult for existing detection methods to accurately identify the specific location and initiation time of cracking. Therefore, there is an urgent need for an intelligent, precise, and efficient monitoring approach capable of acquiring real-time information on the evolution of the internal temperature field in concrete structures during their early-age curing process. A novel temperature-sensitive concrete system was developed by synchronously integrating distributed optical fibers with three-dimensional printed concrete (3DPC) to enable both temperature monitoring and signal transmission. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed method, experimental testing and numerical simulations were conducted on cubic 3D-printed fiber-reinforced concrete to analyze the temporal evolution of their internal temperature fields. The results show that, during the system calibration process, the temperature measured by the distributed temperature sensing (DTS) system was highly consistent with the environmental temperature curve, with fluctuations controlled within ±1 °C. In addition, the numerical simulation results closely aligned with the experimental data, with discrepancies maintained within 5%, demonstrating the feasibility of utilizing 3D printing technology to impart temperature sensitivity to concrete materials. This integrated approach offers a promising pathway for advancing smart concrete technology, providing an effective solution for accurate sensing and control of internal temperatures in concrete structures. It holds substantial potential for practical applications in civil engineering projects.

Source: Materials

DOI: 10.3390/ma18091897

Authors: Qiuju Zhang, Yujia Li, Yuefan Huang, Yangbo Li, Yahui Yang, Yutao Hu

Institution: China Three Gorges University

Language: English

Topic: Innovations in Concrete and Construction Materials

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137