Spatially continuous fully distributed microwave-photonic and coaxial cable sensors for structural health monitoring

This report summarises our recent research progresses in developing new distributed sensing technologies for structural health monitoring (SHM) based on the new microwave-photonic and coaxial cable platforms. The two new platforms have the combined advantages of high measurement resolution, large strain capability, long span of coverage, easy-to-install/embed, spatial continuity (no dark zones), and flexible gauge lengths. The new distributed sensing technology may bring a revolutionary tool to address a number of insufficiently-studied areas in SHM, such as distributed monitoring of cracks and corrosion, post seismic monitoring to ensure mission-critical services in disaster responses and emergency evacuations, study of the progressive structural failures/collapses under extreme loads, and high performance smart structures.