Development, installation and initial results of fiber optic chloride sensors embedded into bridge decks

Fiber optic sensors have repeatedly been shown to provide measurement capabilities of parameters within such reinforced concrete structures. Development of a fiber optic chloride sensor capable of being embedded within a roadway or bridge deck is reported. Once the specific chemistry of the fiber optic sensor was developed and tested, multiple iterations occurred in order to result in a sensor system capable of being embedded into roadway bridges. During the summer and fall of 1997, a total of 64 fiber optic sensors were then embedded into 3 roadway bridges which spanned rivers in northern Vermont. Installation details as well as results are presented.