How do climate conditions affect structural health monitoring strategies?
Understanding the impact of climate on structures is crucial for your safety and the longevity of the buildings you live and work in. Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) is a process that involves the use of various sensors and data collecting techniques to assess the condition of a structure over time. Different climate conditions can greatly influence the strategies used in SHM. For instance, temperature fluctuations can cause materials to expand or contract, which might affect the precision of measurements. Moisture from rain or humidity can also interfere with sensor readings or even damage the sensors themselves. As a result, engineers must carefully consider local climate patterns when designing and implementing SHM systems to ensure accurate and reliable data.