An experimental study on self-sensing smart full-scale reinforced concrete beams

Innovative concretes produced with addition of conductive fillers possess novel or enhanced capabilities. In particular, carbon-based inclusions provide the cementitious matrix with smart electrical and sensing properties. Possible applications stay in the Structural Health Monitoring of constructions during their service life, because such materials are able to evaluate their state of strain, and the occurrence or development of damages. An ideal solution could be to build a whole self-monitoring structure (bulk form). Nevertheless, research literature works typically concern investigations of small-scale samples, with only very limited attempts to go to a larger scale. The aim of this paper is to analyze the self-monitoring behavior of concrete elements produced by addition of carbon microfibers which enhance their sensing capabilities. The paper describes the production and the electrical, mechanical, and monitoring properties of samples at different scales, for applications on full-scale reinforced beams.