Work

Embedded distributed fiber optic strain sensing for multi-scale monitoring and 3D assessment of cementitious materials deterioration

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Cementitious materials structures are subjected throughout their service life to various physical and chemical actions that induce gradual or sudden deterioration. Monitoring these processes in situ is particularly challenging when damage initiates within the concrete matrix. As part of the PALLAS project, this study presents an innovative method for direct monitoring of concrete deterioration using distributed fiber optic strain (DFOS) sensing embedded along a helical path and supported by an additively printed structure. Three laboratory tests representing common degradation mechanisms — a mechanical loading test leading to cracking, an accelerated sulfate attack inducing swelling, and an accelerated carbonation process inducing shrinkage — were conducted on small-scale mortar specimens to capture both global and localized deformation processes over varying temporal scales. The embedded DFOS system successfully detected and localized gradual internal strain variations associated with shrinkage and swelling, as well as abrupt strain changes due to cracking. A polyharmony interpolation framework was introduced to convert helical-path strain data into interpolated surfaces and three-dimensional representations, enabling visualization of the structure’s geometry, non-uniform deformation patterns, and direct comparison with visual inspections. Notably, strain gradients measured prior to cracking predicted the locations of future cracks, demonstrating DFOS as an effective early-warning tool for stress-driven damage and predictive structural health monitoring. Overall, this approach demonstrates strong capabilities for multi-scale and multi-temporal monitoring of concrete degradation, with potential applications in civil engineering infrastructure and in the monitoring of engineered barriers and waste-package systems in nuclear and radioactive waste disposal facilities.

Source: Measurement

DOI: 10.1016/j.measurement.2026.123203

Authors: Nataline Simon, Pierre Dick, Julie Pouya, Nicolas Aubert, Aghiad Khadour, Alexandre Dauzères

Institutions: Autorité de sûreté nucléaire et de radioprotection, Université Gustave Eiffel

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Fiber Optic Sensors

Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,760