Combined punctual and diffused monitoring of concrete structures based on dielectric measurements

This work presents a microwave reflectometry-based system for monitoring large concrete structures (during the curing process and also while the structure is in use), through the combined use of punctual and diffused sensing elements. In particular, the adoption of punctual probes on a reference concrete specimen allows the development of an innovative and accurate calibration procedure, useful to obtain the value of the water content on a larger structure made of the same material. Additionally, a wire-like diffused sensing element can be permanently embedded in buildings and used to monitor the structure along the entire length of the sensing element. The adopted diffused sensing element can be used not only to detect dielectric variation during the curing process, but also throughout the service life of the structure. The combined use of punctual and diffused sensing elements represents an important innovation from a procedural point of view, able to provide detailed and quantitative information on the health status of the structure both during and after construction.