Technology developments in structural health monitoring of large-scale bridges

The significance of implementing long-term structural health monitoring systems for large-scale bridges, in order to secure structural and operational safety and issue early warnings on damage or deterioration prior to costly repair or even catastrophic collapse, has been recognized by bridge administrative authorities. Developing a long-term monitoring system for a large-scale bridge—one that is really able to provide information for evaluating structural integrity, durability and reliability throughout the bridge life cycle and ensuring optimal maintenance planning and safe bridge operation—poses technological challenges at different levels, from the selection of proper sensors to the design of a structural health evaluation system. This paper explores recent technology developments in the field of structural health monitoring and their application to large-scale bridge projects. The need for technological fusion from different disciplines, and for a structural health evaluation paradigm that is really able to help prioritize bridge rehabilitation, maintenance and emergency repair, is highlighted.