Interface Debonding Detection of Precast Segmental Concrete Beams (PSCBs) Using Piezoceramic Transducer‐Based Active Sensing Approach

Abstract

An active sensing approach using piezoceramic induced stress wave is proposed to provide monitoring and early warning for the development of interface debonding damage of precast segmental concrete beams (PSCBs). Three concrete specimens with toothed interfaces were fabricated and bonded with high-strength epoxy resin adhesive to form PSCBs. Smart aggregates (SAs) embedded in concrete specimens are used as actuators and sensors. The PSCBs are subjected to periodic loading with hydraulic jack to test the different degrees of debonding damage. The experimental results of time-domain and frequency-domain analysis clearly show that the amplitude of the signal received by the piezoceramic sensor is reduced when debonding crack occurs. The energy analysis and damage index based on wavelet packet can be used to determine the existence and severity of interface debonding damage in PSCBs. The experimental research validates the feasibility of monitoring the interface debonding damage in PSCBs using SA transducers based on active sensing technique.

Debonding Performance of CFRP-Strengthened Nanomaterial Concrete Beam Using Wavelet Packet Analysis

“…The spacing of the strain gauges is 50 mm. The cement used for casting the specimen is type 32.5 Portland cement [19]. The average compressive strength of the concrete for 28 days is 30 MPa.…”

“…Jiang et al monitored crack damage of FRP-reinforced concrete beams by SAs and successfully provided early warning [18]. The SAs are embedded in the concrete structure as a transducer [19]. However, piezoceramic SAs generate stress wave energy, which requires medium propagation.…”

Debonding Detection of Reinforced Concrete (RC) Beam with Near-Surface Mounted (NSM) Pre-stressed Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) Plates Using Embedded Piezoceramic Smart Aggregates (SAs)

“…PZT has become a popular piezoelectric material due to its strong piezoelectric effect. Due to the special piezoelectric properties, PZT with dual functions of stress wave transmission and detection can be utilized as both actuator and sensor [30]. Since the PZT is fragile, special treatment methods are usually adopted to protect the PZT from working properly.…”

“…Strain gauges were symmetrically arranged on the outside of the CFRP plate at the non-pre-stressed CFRP bond section of the beam to measure the strain of the CFRP plate during the loading process, as shown in Figures 3 and 5. The cement used for casting the specimen is type 32.5 Portland cement [30]. The mixture ratio of the concrete is shown in Table 1.…”