Strain Transfer Mechanisms and Mechanical Properties of Optical Fiber Cables

Understanding the strain transfer mechanism is required to interpret strain sensing results for fiber optic cables. The strain transfer mechanism for fiber optic cables embedded in cementitious materials has yet to be thoroughly investigated experimentally. Interpretation of fiber optic sensing results is of particular concern when there is a displacement discontinuity. This study investigates the strain transfer mechanism for different types of fiber optic cables while embedded in concrete cubes, sustaining a boundary condition which features a displacement discontinuity. The strain transfer mechanisms for different cables are compared under increasing strain levels. Under cyclic loading, the nonlinear behavior of the force-displacement relation and of the strain distribution in the fiber optic cable are discussed. The mechanical properties of the fiber optic cables are presented and discussed. A parameter is proposed to quantify the strain transfer length. The results of this study will assist researchers and engineers to select appropriate cables for strain sensing and interpret the fiber optic sensing results.

Automated summary

Understanding the strain transfer mechanism is crucial for interpreting strain sensing results for fiber optic cables. This study investigates the strain transfer mechanism for different types of fiber optic cables embedded in concrete cubes, and proposes a parameter to quantify the strain transfer length. The results of this study will guide the selection of appropriate cables for strain sensing and the interpretation of fiber optic sensing results.