SHM at Giant Mine Heaps by OTDR Sensing with Polymer Optical Fibers: Chances and Challenges from Field Campaigns

Results from field measurement campaigns for structural health monitoring (SHM) at giant mine heaps by optical time domain reflectometry (OTDR) in polymer optical fibers (POF) are presented. Polymer geogrids built for soil reinforcement are fitted with POF for strain sensing as part of a geosynthetic sealing system designed to protect the heap from infiltration of surface water. Strain is detected by a local increase of backscatter. Measurements on eight sensor lines have been performed over a time period of six months to monitor the system behavior and potential development of or cracks within the underlying base of a sealing system. Results show the usability of this technology for strain sensing and SHM in such a harsh environment. Challenges still exist in the quantitative evaluation of the fiber sensor data due to cross sensitivity to fiber bending and lateral pressure.