Challenges in damage detection based on finite element analyses and monitoring of dynamic curvature of concrete-steel composite structures

This work researches damage detection in composite concrete-steel structures that are typical for highway overpasses and bridges. The techniques herein proposed assume that typical damage in the deck occurs in form of delamination and cracking, and that it affects the peak PSD of curvature. The investigation is performed by combining results of measurements collected by long-gauge fiber optic strain sensors installed on monitored structure and finite element analysis. The finite element model has been prepared by using design parameters and validated by comparing it with dynamic frequencies obtained from the monitoring system. The method was able to detect unusual behavior through probabilistic study of the peak PSD.