Effect of Lateral Position and Driving Conditions on Strain Pulses Recorded by FBG Sensors in Asphalt Pavements

This chapter presents a comprehensive investigation into the effect of the lateral position and driving conditions of a heavy axle on the strain pulses recorded by fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors embedded at the bottom of the asphalt layer in a real field section. The study was motivated by the diversity in strain pulses observed during a monitoring campaign, including shape and sign (from compression to tension). The need to decipher the significance of these diverse pulses is essential for enhancing signal interpretation and supporting structural health monitoring efforts. The methodology involved using a calibrated truck and exploring various driving conditions. The results of the study are presented, accompanied by replicates and images depicting the truck’s position relative to the FBG sensors. In conclusion, this study offers valuable insights into the dynamic strain behavior at the bottom of asphalt layers in response to heavy axle movements under various driving conditions. The findings provide a foundation for interpreting FBG sensor data in the context of health monitoring and have implications for enhancing the resilience of infrastructure systems.