Real-time monitoring of concrete curing

Sensor network system for real-time monitoring of concrete curing (2018).

Funding: UAI-2030
Role: Developer and Solution Architect


Context

In concrete construction, monitoring temperature and humidity during curing is critical to determine the exact setting point of the mix. Traditional methods rely on a supervisor physically inspecting each sensor at discrete time intervals, capturing only point-in-time readings — leaving the process blind between visits.

A prior laboratory campaign evaluated multiple sensor configurations, and a pilot deployment of four temperature and humidity sensors was carried out on a massive concrete structure (~950 BSA m³, February 2016), yielding results consistent with independent measurements from DICTUC on the same site.

Despite this, the industry still lacks a real-time remote monitoring system, creating a gap between the data available and the decisions that need to be made on-site.


Objective

Design and deploy a wireless sensor network — combining MESH radio and GPRS connectivity — embedded directly in the concrete structure during curing. The system continuously streams temperature and humidity data to a central server, enabling real-time visibility and predictive analytics of concrete curing conditions without requiring on-site personnel to collect readings manually.


Central unit components include the server box, LipoBoost shield, GPRS modem, current sensor, temperature and humidity sensor, relay, and supporting metallic mounts — all integrated for field deployment.

Status: MVP — currently in validation phase within a live production environment.