Embedded PZT aggregates for monitoring crack growth and predicting surface crack in reinforced concrete beam

This study proposed an approach to monitor the cracks growth process of reinforced concrete beam using embedded piezoelectric aggregates. The principle of stress waves propagation in concrete cracks was analyzed, and a damage index was introduced to estimate the crack damage degree in concrete structure on this basis. A stepwise loading was applied to the reinforced concrete beam, and it was divided into three areas according to the different force conditions. Moreover, the piezoelectric aggregates were fabricated, and four aggregates were embedded into the specimen to monitor its each area by active monitoring technique. The results of the experiment demonstrated that the proposed damage index could realize the dynamic monitoring and damage degree evaluation of the specimen. Furthermore, this index could forecast the occurrence of surface crack and warn the collapse of the structure in advance. The proposed method was also verified by high-speed camera and image processing technique.

Automated summary

This study proposes a method to monitor the cracks growth process of reinforced concrete beam using embedded piezoelectric aggregates. A damage index is introduced to estimate the crack damage degree in concrete structure. The reinforced concrete beam is loaded stepwise and divided into three areas. Piezoelectric aggregates are embedded into the specimen to monitor each area. The results show that the proposed damage index enables dynamic monitoring, damage evaluation, and forecasting of surface crack occurrence and collapse warning of the structure. The method is verified using high-speed camera and image processing technique.