Install sensors just about anywhere.

While many existing practices for structural health monitoring (SHM) solutions rely heavily on tethered (wired) systems, our sensors are wire-free and non-destructive. This provides installation flexibility for our system: new construction, repairs to damaged structures, or retrofit into existing concrete. In any case, our sensors and online monitoring system collects and analyzes precise information that leads to proactive long-term maintenance systems.

New construction

Before concrete

We install the corrosion sensor above the reinforcement (assuming corrosion attack from above) before placing the concrete. Placement of the sensor depends on the engineers’ choice of when to trigger the early warning. Some place the corrosion sensors so that the lowest level of the corrosion wire is precisely at the level of the reinforcement (to know when corrosion starts at that level). However, this does not align with our philosophy of an early warning system. Therefore, we typically advise placing the sensors directly above the reinforcement.

A minimum concrete cover of 5/8 inch (15 mm) from the upper edge of the sensor must be observed for C20/25. For higher concrete strength classes (C40/45+), the value can be reduced by 3/16 in (5 mm).

Repair

Before concrete patch

Some prefer to install the sensor as close to the surface as possible to detect trends early. In some cases, we fasten the corrosion sensor behind or under the reinforcement because the remaining chloride-contaminated concrete could corrode from below. Regardless, we embed the sensors in a coupling mortar and then seal the repair site according to recognized rules and standards, such as using plastic-modified mortar.

Existing structures

Placement in core hole

Concrete sensor installation on an existing structure requires a core hole, coupling mortar, and finishing (depending on the position) with a mechanical sealant or shrinkage-free plastic-modified mortar. We must observe the subsequent mechanical load situation and corresponding after-treatment of the surface in accordance with current regulations. If there’s need of a final coating, you can apply the coupling mortar to the surface.

Installation Questions?

A collection of frequently asked questions regarding how our sensors are installed.

What needs to be considered during sensor installation?

Factors to consider during sensor installation include ensuring that the tie wire is securely fastened to the reinforcement, preventing the sensor from floating during the concrete pouring process. Additionally, it is crucial to thoroughly document the sensor’s installation position in the plans to facilitate locating the sensor during future readings. For retrofit installations, it is essential to ensure that the core hole is not too large (10 cm core drilling) to enable efficient and quick coupling to the existing concrete. When installing a corrosion sensor, attention must be paid to orienting it with the roughened surface parallel to the main surface, ensuring that the first measurement layer represents the upper wire layer even in the installation scenario.