Bridge weigh-in-motion system and Structural Health Monitoring using fiber optic sensors

There have been over 3000 bridge weigh-in-motion (B-WIM) installations in 25 countries worldwide, this has led vast improvements in post processing of B-WIM systems since its introduction in the 1970’s. This paper introduces a new low-power B-WIM system using fibre optic sensors (FOS). The system consisted of a series of FOS which were attached to the soffit of an existing integral bridge with a single span of 19m. The site selection criteria and full installation process has been detailed in the paper. A method of calibration was adopted using live traffic at the bridge site and based on this calibration the accuracy of the system was determined.

Banana and abaca fiber-reinforced plastic composites obtained by rotational molding process

Natural fibers can be used in rotational molding process to obtain parts with improved mechanical properties. Different approaches have been followed in order to produce formulations containing banana or abaca fiber at 5% weight, in two- and three-layer constructions. Chemically treated abaca fiber has also been studied, causing some problems in processability. Fibers used have been characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), optical microscopy, and single-fiber mechanical tests. Rotomolded parts have been tested for tensile, flexural, and impact properties, demonstrating that important increases in elastic modulus are achieved with these fibers, although impact properties are reduced. © 2013 Copyright Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.