Structural Behavior Monitoring System Using Scalable Carbon Nanotube Patch Sensors

Abstract

— In this study, a scalable Carbon NanoTube (CNT) patch sensor-based system is introduced to monitor the abnormal behavior of bridge structures. The CNT sensor is a composite of carbon nanotubes and polyurethane, and it functions as a sensor that could detect the behavior of a structure using the electrical resistance change characteristics of the CNT. The size and shape of the scalable CNT patch sensor are adjustable depending on the type and surface condition of the structure, making the sensor attachable in locations where existing sensors, such as strain gauges, could not be installed. Therefore, the scalable CNT patch sensor could accurately detect abnormal behaviors occurring at any locations of the structure. The observed data is transmitted to the Internet of Things (IoT) based behavior detection and monitoring system for analysis, allowing us to proactively identify structural problems that may arise. The abnormal behavior monitoring system using scalable CNT patch sensors was field tested on a steel tied arch bridge in the United States. This confirms that the proposed system could effectively monitor the abnormal behavior of bridge structures and detect potential problems. It is expected that the structural abnormal behavior detection technology using scalable CNT patch sensors would be effectively utilized in various fields in the near future.