Joints between diaphragm wall panels are weak spots in wall construction. It is essential that potential leak sites are detected prior to excavation. In this study, a novel leak detection and monitoring system is presented that is based on fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensing technology. A field study was performed in a deep excavation supported by diaphragm walls (in Hohhot, China) to validate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method. Two schemes were trialed; one using pipes made of stainless steel, and one used a pipeless method. The results of the field study are presented and discussed. They show that potential leak sites in the wall joints could be determined prior to excavation using the proposed detection method. Stainless steel is a good material to use to make the detection tube because it can protect the FBG sensors and heating belts from damage and is more sensitive to water leakage. The field study provides good evidence for the feasibility of the new detection system. It also provides valuable experience for the field application of the system and has generated useful data to use in follow-up work.
Keywords: diaphragm wall; fiber Bragg grating sensor; field study; joint; leakage detection.