Moisture sensor for buildings offering depth resolution

Classic moisture sensors in architecture detect moisture in a building material by means of electrical resistance measurement. However, this does not allow any conclusions to be drawn about how the moisture is distributed inside the building component. Thanks to its segments, this newly developed multi-ring-sensor provides precise information about the distribution of moisture in the depth of the building material.
Physical Sciences
Mechanical Engineering
Reference
b81163
IP right year
2022
IP status
EP filed
Patentee
Technical University of Munich
Contact
Stephan Ottmar

Challenge and innovation

This new moisture sensor detects electrical resistance along its entire installation length. This gives definite conclusions about the moisture content of the monitored building material in different layers of depth. The sensor is suitable for instantaneous as well as long-term measurements in structures made of wood and concrete in particular. Problem areas and risks, such as moisture-induced reduction of compressive and flexural strength, are detected at an early stage, preventing damage.

Due to its elastic design, the system is suitable for permanent stationary use even in dynamic materials. The design uses elastic electrodes, which enable reliable contacting of the building material over the entire borehole. It records the moisture content in all layers over the length of the installation. The sensor measures the electrical resistance frome zone to zone and is suitable for permanent building monitoring over long periods of time. It can additionally be equipped with a commercially available high resistance measuring device and the possibility of sensor data export (e.g. via radio or WLAN).

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