Advances in the development of piezoelectric smart aggregates for structural health monitoring

Abstract

Keywords Infrastructure proliferation Concrete utilization Structural health monitoring (SHM) Smart aggregates Developmental directionsIn recent times, the use of concrete has greatly increased alongside the rapid growth of global infrastructure. However, concrete structures face various risks like dynamic forces from winds or earthquakes and environmental impacts like corrosion. These challenges are more significant due to the saturation of infrastructure projects worldwide. To tackle these issues and ensure the long-term strength of structures, the field of structural health monitoring (SHM) has become incredibly important. One promising technology in this area is the use of smart aggregates. These are special materials that are embedded in concrete and serve three main purposes: monitoring early concrete strength, detecting impacts, and continuously monitoring the health of structures. Smart aggregates have several advantages, including being able to detect a wide range of frequencies, responding quickly, being easy to make, process, and cost-effective. Because of these benefits, they are becoming widely used for monitoring the health of structures. As time has passed, there have been significant improvements in smart aggregate technology. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the basic principles behind using smart aggregates for structural health monitoring. It also discusses the progress made in the last twenty years in three main areas: technology development, measurement range, and wireless capabilities. Additionally, the article briefly discusses recent real-world uses of smart aggregates for structural health monitoring. Looking ahead, the article outlines potential future trends in the development of smart aggregate technology. It emphasizes the need for more research to better understand how these materials perform and how effective they are in different situations. This research is crucial for making further advancements in ensuring the durability and safety of structures.