Brillouin optical time-domain analysis for geotechnical monitoring

Abstract

In this paper, we show some recent experimental applications of Brillouin optical time-domain analysis (BOTDA) based sensors for geotechnical monitoring. In particular, how these sensors can be applied to detecting early movements of soil slopes by the direct embedding of suitable fiber cables in the ground is presented. Furthermore, the same technology can be used to realize innovative inclinometers, as well as smart foundation anchors.

Keywords

• Brillouin optical time-domain analysis (BOTDA)
• Tunnel engineering
• Deformation
• Distributed monitoring
• Health diagnosis