E10190-000816
FOS
Page 11
2.1.3 REBAR INSTALLATION
To install instrumented rebar into a new structure as part of the reinforcement cage, a
portion of the surface of rebar 70-80 mm long should be milled flat. This forms a perfect
surface on which to bond a sensor and the installation procedure is the same as
described in section 2.1.2.
2.1.4 INSTALLATION OF SENSORS WITH COMPOSITE LAMINATES ON
CONCRETE STRUCTURES
The FOS or FOS-B fiber-optic sensor can be installed on existing concrete structures
using composite laminate overwraps. For example, carbon or glass fiber reinforced
polymer (CFRP or GFRP) can be used as a protective wrap that also strengthens the
structure. This type of installation can be done according to the following steps.
1. Surface preparation
2. Primer application
3. Putty application
4. Epoxy application
5. CFRP/GFRP bottom sheets installation
6. Epoxy application and FOS/FOS-B installation
7. CFRP/GFRP top sheets installation (optional)
8. Final epoxy coating
9. Curing
1. Surface preparation
Concrete surface must be sanded smooth to the touch
Wash the sanded surface with water using a stiff bristle brush
Let dry for 24 hours, then brush the surface again and spray with an air hose
Make sure that the concrete surface is dry
NOTE:
When applying primer, putty or epoxy, always follow manufacturer’s
instructions as to:
- Wearing a protective mask, goggles or gloves
- Mixing procedure;
- Applying procedure
- Curing time
In each case, always make sure that:
- No (or few) air bubbles have been formed during mixing
- The surface is clean and dry prior to application
