Strain data acquired by an OFDR optic fiber sensor during tensile tests on a double-notched sample for strain gradient imposition

This dataset contains strain measurement data acquired using Rayleigh-based Optical Frequency Domain Reflectometry (OFDR) sensors in a series of controlled experiments designed to investigate the impact of strain gradients on data integrity in such sensors. The dataset supports the findings presented in the associated study: "Investigation of Distributed Optic Fiber Sensors: Data Loss Due to Strain Gradient.". The data helps to analyze the relationship between strain gradients and data loss in OFDR sensors. It provides insights into how gage pitch selection influences data accuracy, particularly in high-gradient regions.

Experimental Setup

The experiments include tensile tests performed on a double-notched PMMA specimen instrumented with a Rayleigh backscattering-based OFDR sensor. The objective is to analyze data loss when high strain gradients are applied.

• Test specimen: The primary sample was specifically designed to impose a controlled strain gradient on the optic fiber sensor while ensuring the fiber remained within its elastic strain limit (1.2%). The geometry of the specimen is illustrated here in the PDF file Sample_geometry_and_notch_dimensions.pdf accompanying the strain measurement data files.
• Loading conditions: The tensile tests were conducted under cyclic loading (load/unload cycles) to assess the stability of strain measurements and identify potential thresholds for data loss.
• Optic fiber sensor: The tests were performed using a Standard single-mode optical fiber.
• Interrogation system: A Luna ODiSI-6100 series interrogation unit was used for strain data acquisition, operating at different gage pitches (0.65 mm, 1.3 mm, 2.6 mm, and 5.2 mm).