Enhanced self-sensory measurements for smart carbon-based textile reinforced cement structures

This study explores advanced capabilities of smart carbon-based textile reinforced cement-based elements to monitor its structural health. The goal is to enhance and amplify the electrical measurements and the sensitivity of the electrical readings. To answer these goals, the study develops advanced alternating current (AC) based electrical measurement setups. The study also offers to use a new cementitious matrix with enhanced mechanical, rheological and electrical properties. To amplify the measurement, the study suggests measuring the electrical changes at the resonance frequency of the system, which can be done by connecting external capacitors to the embedded carbon roving. A comparison investigation is performed to explore the monitoring capabilities of four electrical measurement setups at various structural states. Eight textile and fibers reinforced cement-based beam specimens were investigated under flexural loading. It is found that by connecting an external parallel capacitor to the roving, amplified, stable and sensitive electrical measurements are achieved.