A comparative evaluation of strain measurement techniques in reinforced concrete structures–A discussion of assembly, application, and accuracy. (4th May 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Clauß, Felix; Ahrens, Mark Alexander; Mark, Peter
• Is Part Of: Structural concrete. Volume 22:Number 5(2021)
• Page Start: 2992
• Page End: 3007
• Publication Date: 2021-05-04
• Subjects: accuracy -- concrete -- crack -- digital image correlation -- fiber optic sensors -- measurement techniques -- repeatability -- strain -- strain gauges; Reinforced concrete -- Periodicals; 624.1834
• DOI: 10.1002/suco.202000706
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1464-4177

Abstract

Abstract: The measurement of strain in structural elements is a necessary means of investigating the condition of a structure, both in research and in practice. The measurement methods for recording strain considered in this work represent both well‐established techniques (strain gauges), as well as techniques that are part of rather current research streams (fiber optic sensors, digital image correlation). This work's contribution lies in providing an overarching comparison of these approaches, thereby informing practitioners and researchers as to parameters concerning their assembly, application, and their accuracy. To such ends, two test series were carried out, one on RC tension rods and another on a RC beam in a four‐point bending test. From the latter scenario, for example, certain generalizations were to be deduced for varying load levels: low strains are measured well using the fiber optic technique. Conversely, digital image correlation was discovered to be an adequate choice when assessing higher strain levels and concomitant concrete cracking, as this non‐contact technique avoids imprecisions caused by adhesives. Findings are to assist the future user by contrasting the three techniques in terms of assembly, handling, application and resilience of sensors, external influences as well as measurement resolution and accuracy. Such practice‐oriented remarks should simplify a selection of the suitable measurement techniques catering to the respective, context‐dependent testing scenario.