This paper presents intrinsic polymer fiber (POF) sensors for high-strain applications such as the performance-based assessment and health monitoring of civil infrastructure systems subjected to earthquake loading or morphing aircraft. POFs provide a potential maximum strain range of 6-12%, are more flexible that silica optical fibers, and are more durable in harsh chemical or environmental conditions. Recent advances in the fabrication of single mode POFs have made it possible to extend POFs to interferometric sensor capabilities. Furthermore, the interferometric nature of intrinsic sensors permits high accuracy for such measurements. Measurements of the mechanical response of the sensor at various strain rates are presented. Several cleaving methods were also tested in order to appropriately cleave POFs for coupling purposes. In addition, the design of a time-of-flight interferometer for phase measurements over the large strain range required is discussed. Finally the bond strength between the embedded POF and various structural materials is investigated and a methodology demonstrated for embedment of the sensors into a reinforced concrete structural component.

Date Published: 8 April 2008
PDF: 12 pages
Proc. SPIE 6932, Sensors and Smart Structures Technologies for Civil, Mechanical, and Aerospace Systems 2008, 693242 (8 April 2008); doi: 10.1117/12.775866

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 6932:
Sensors and Smart Structures Technologies for Civil, Mechanical, and Aerospace Systems 2008
Masayoshi Tomizuka, Editor(s)