A Self-Sensing Adaptive Material for a New Generation of Multifunctional Highway Bridge Bearing Systems
Project Information
Project ID:
FHWA-PROJ-13-0106
Project Abstract:
The objective is to develop self-sensing adaptive bearing (SSAB) system that uses a wireless magnetorheological elastomer (MRE) sensor, which combines self-sensing (force, displacement, lateral stiffness-sensing actuation) with adaptive stiffness/vibration damping (tuned vibration absorption) into a single system. The proposed system will be capable of sensing transient displacement/load in monitoring bridge responses to environmental disturbances (such as traffic or high wind) at support locations, while at the same time producing variable stiffness properties for protection of bridges against various types of loading conditions. The successful realization of such a new multifunctional system could lead to quantum-leap changes in long-term highway bridge performance and maintenance. The information obtained through the MRE sensors will have an impact in future design of structures during extreme events.
Goals
To design, develop, test, and evaluate a wireless magnetorheological elastomer (MRE)-based sensor for highway bridges.
Test Methodology
(1) A universal equivalent circuit phenomenological model: to monitor the electric response of magnetorheological elastomers (MREs) with different particle inclusions under an applied magnetic field and mechanical deformations. (2) The percolation theory: to capture the changes of macroscopic electrical properties of MREs due to the particle structure variations.
Expected Benefits
It is anticipated that the proposed self-sensing adaptive bearing (SSAB) system will lead to new management models in highway structures that can improve long-term performance of the Nation's infrastructure.
Research HUB ID:
8846
Project Status:
Completed
Project Funding Amount (Contract Award Amount):
$650,000.00
Start Date:
End Date:
Public Access Plan:
No
Laboratory:
Grant/Contract ID:
- 435666
FHWA Program Area:
- Exploratory Advanced Research
Fiscal Year / AMRP Program / AMRP Activity:
- FY 2002-2022 / Infrastructure / Pavements and Materials
- FY 2002-2022 / Infrastructure / Structures
FHWA Activity:
- Highway Safety Information System
AMRP = Annual Modal Research Plan
Contact Information
Team:
Bridge Engineering Team
Office:
Office of Infrastructure Research and Development
Office Code:
HRDI-40
Management Organizations
Sponsor Organization
Organization Role:
Sponsor Organization
Organization:
Federal Highway Administration: Office of Research, Development, and Technology - Office of Infrastructure Research and Development
Deliverables
Links to Project Reports: