Enhanced Structural Assessment of Asphalt Pavements Using Fiber Bragg Grating Sensors

Fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors have emerged as a promising technology for structural health monitoring (SHM) of asphalt pavements. They provide real-time temperature and strain data that can be used for the early detection of structural damage, which may in turn help extend pavement lifespan. This study investigated the use of FBG sensors for strain and temperature monitoring of asphalt pavements. A test track was constructed at the Port of Antwerp with a novel sensor configuration embedded in an asphalt layer using different installation methods. Then, a falling weight deflectometer (FWD) was used to assess the performance and survivability rate of the sensors after paving. Besides, strain and temperature data were collected during a pavement monitoring campaign and then analyzed to investigate the reliability of this technology for the structural health assessment of asphalt pavements. The findings show that FBG sensors could survive the harsh conditions of a construction site. The results also highlight the importance of proper and precise installation of FBG sensors to ensure accurate and reliable measurements. Overall, the use of FBG sensors has the potential to significantly reduce maintenance costs and enhance safety on the roads.