Experimental evaluation of hardening strains in a bioceramic material using an embedded optical sensor

The paper introduces the use of optical fiber Bragg grating sensors for investigating the magnitude of the generated strains induced during the hardening process of calcium phosphate bioceramics such as hydroxyapatite cements. It is demonstrated that such optical sensors can provide important information on the magnitude of the generated internal strains during the entire hardening period. Their potential in capturing any phase transformations that the cement structure undergoes during the process of hardening is also examined and discussed. Mechanical properties of moist cements before and after the appearance of an observed transition point during hardening are also reported.