Development of Integrated Wireless Sensor Network Device with Mold for Measurement of Concrete Temperature

Temperature of fresh concrete can be effectively used to predict the strength of concrete being cured and make an informed decision for stripping the molds. A hygrothermograph and thermo-couple sensors that require an extensive wiring have been applied to measure a temperature of concrete at the early stage of the curing process on site. However, these methods have limits to provide the temperature data in real time due to harsh working environment including frequent cutting of wires. Therefore, this study is aiming at developing a device based on wireless sensor network to measure the temperature of concrete being cured in formwork. The result showed that the wireless sensor with probe type thermistor which is developed had the same temperature data compared to the existed wire type thermistor, and we confirmed the temperature history of concrete in real time for 28 days throughout the gateway by wireless network that collects the temperature data measured from specimens in laboratory. Also, the network device for transmission can be easily separated from the probe sensor part and reused consistently. If the wireless sensor network device developed uses in the field, the temperature management of concrete will be systematically conducted from at the early stage of the curing, and especially be effective for cold weather concrete construction. In addition, it will contribute to the establishment of advanced quality control system for concrete and productivity of supervisors on site will be increased in the future.