Integrated Monitoring of TRC Using Carbon Fibers

The development of self-sensory capabilities for structural health monitoring of concrete structures in general, and, particularly, of textile reinforced concrete (TRC) structures opens a new spectrum of opportunities. Carbon fibre tows that are embedded within the textile can serve as the reinforcing component for the structural action as well as the self-sensing component. The main advantage of this technology is that there is no need for additional sensors and that the monitoring agent is located within the load bearing element serving as an inherent part of its structural form. Preliminarily results quantitatively demonstrated the feasibility of the sensing concept in two applications: detecting strains in a mechanically loaded structural element and monitoring the interaction of the structural element with a wet environment. This paper aims to present an overview of this innovative technology. The paper addresses aspects ranging from the production process of the hybrid carbon based TRC structural element to its mechanical performance and its structural, environmental, and functional self-sensory capabilities. The paper also aims to highlight new directions for future research into the emerging technology.