UTC 2022 Funding - Cycle 2 Research Projects

Project No.: CY3-UTEP-03
Title: Continuous 3D Strain Imaging for Structural Health Monitoring of Pavements 
Performing Institution: The University of Texas at El Paso
Principal Investigator: Soheil Nazarian and Cesar Tirado
Start and Anticipated Completion Dates: 01/01/2026 to 01/15/2027 
Abstract: This project proposes to advance road infrastructure monitoring by leveraging distributed fiber optic sensing (DFOS) technologies in conjunction with advanced visualization techniques. While typical assessment tools rely on surface measurements and back calculation methods to infer internal conditions, they cannot measure strains within the pavement layers directly. On the other hand, traditional localized sensors offer limited spatial coverage, missing critical information between sensing points. Embedding distributed fiber optic sensing sensors directly into pavement structures will potentially enable the acquisition of high-resolution, real-time distributed strain measurements across extended lengths, providing an unprecedented, comprehensive understanding of the infrastructure condition under traffic loads. Furthermore, the integration of distributed fiber optic sensing measurements with mapping tools will allow transportation engineers to readily identify potential damage areas and structural deficiencies, which can potentially lead to optimized maintenance scheduling, improved road safety, and reduced long-term infrastructure management costs for highway agencies. 
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