The technology lets researchers test new building materials for bridges such as high-strength concrete. "Most data on how these materials perform under load come from lab tests, but NMSU technology lets us see how they perform in the field," says one researcher. Over the life of the bridge, data will show how the materials perform under long-term stress, improving preventative maintenance and extending the life of the bridge.
New Mexico State University
This web-only article appears in the Mechanical monthly email newsletter. If you enjoyed this article and would like to read more like it, sign up today for our free email newsletters!