Packaging Design Assessment for an Experimental Fiber Optic Humidity Sensor Embeddable in Concrete Structures

Abstract

This paper presents the design of a packaging applicable to an experimental optical fiber sensor to measure RH inside concrete structures. RH optical sensor is based on a Long Period Fiber Grating (LPG) functionalized with a suitable humidity sensitive film deposited on it. A functional test was carried out on the final physical sensor configuration to evaluate the impact of using the encapsulation on the sensing performance. Characterization test results are shown taking into account design considerations and assumptions made. Finally, the encapsulation use feasibility is concluded.