Mechanics of bond and interface shear transfer in optical fiber sensors

Optical fiber sensors are emerging as a superior nondestructive means for condition evaluation of civil structures. The ability of an optical fiber sensor to monitor strain distribution in a structural material depends on the bonding characteristics between the material and the optical fiber. The strain field transferred from the structure to the optical fiber sensor generates changes in the characteristics of the light signal transmitted by the glass core of the optical fiber. Transduction of this signal will provide a means for measurement of strain. However, the mechanical properties of the protective coatings employed in conjunction with optical fibers alter the strain transduction capabilities of the sensor. A portion of the strain is absorbed by the protective coating of the optical fiber, and hence, only a segment of structural strain is sensed. In the study reported here, a model is introduced and tested through which it is possible to interpret the actual level of structural strains from the values measured by an optical fiber sensor. A number of realistic assumptions were introduced to simplify the development of the mathematical rigor. It was determined that the strain transfer characteristics of optical fibers depend on the mechanical properties of the glass core, the protective coating, and the gauge length of the optical fiber. Mathematical expressions are developed through which it is possible to describe the level of strain loss within the protective coating, and the amount transferred to the optical fiber core. The theoretical findings were verified through a series of experiments involving white light interferometry. The investigation encompassed repeated experiments with a range of fiber sensor gauge lengths. The experimental program included evaluation of strain transfer capabilities of coated as well as bare fibers.