Innovation: ENEA patents new sensors to monitor large scale civil structures

ENEA has patented an innovative and low-cost technique to manufacture fiber optic sensor chains to be used for the structural monitoring of large civil and geotechnical engineering works like viaducts, dams and pilings. The system was developed at the ENEA Micro and Nanostructures Laboratory for Photonics and is already suitable for industrial use with a Technological Maturity Level of 8-9, although it is possible that further engineering to better solve construction site problems and achieve certifications for specific applications will be needed.

Large civil and geotechnical engineering works need periodic checks to verify structural integrity and functionality throughout their operating life", explained Michele Caponero, ENEA researcher and inventor of the patent with his colleague Andrea Polimadei. "Our state-of-the-art, mature technique,- he said - is particularly suitable for the creation of distributed and remote monitoring systems to be installed permanently”

The technology can reduce production costs and enables easy customization[1] of size, shape and parameters to be measured. Many of the more recent large works and virtually all the new ones are equipped with permanently installed monitoring systems, capable of providing an early warning for initial deterioration.

“The creation of sensor chains, also for fiber optic technology, presents various problems with costs that can even become higher the sensors themselves. Our patent was created to solve these problems”, continued Caponero.

“Monitoring systems based on traditional electrical/electronic technology - he continued - present various problems in the case of permanent installations, which are increasingly being overcome by adopting fiber optic technology solutions. Our patent guarantees greater durability, simplifies wiring and enables direct long-distance signal transfer”, concluded Caponero.

Even extremely simplifying the installation of optical fiber sensors, the operational requirements of construction sites usually require the sensors be prepared in advance as 'chains of sensors', i.e. a single cable (even of great length and sometimes with secondary branches ) along which there are multiple sensors whose signal is available at one end of the cable itself.

Michele Caponero, ENEA - Laboratory of Micro and Nanostructures for Photonics,

[1] Adapting a product, a good or a service, through specific customization interventions, to the needs and expectations of the customer