A rugged FBG-based pressure sensor for water level monitoring in dikes

This paper describes the implementation of an FBG sensor to measure water levels in a dike. The sensor is based on a 3D-printed mechanical transducer through which the external pressure is converted into longitudinal strain exerted on the fiber. An additional FBG integrated within the sensor measures temperature and is used to compensate for the temperature effects on the first FBG. By employing an aluminum alloy case, the sensor is suitable for operations in harsh environments and rough installation procedures. Four sensors of this kind have been successfully tested on a real scale dike at the Water Proof Holland facility in The Netherlands.