Annual Report 1999/2000

Technology Utilization Increased Receptor Capacity Fulfillment of the ISIS Canada mandate will be determined by the degree to which the infrastructure sector utilizes ISIS technologies over the long-term. In spite of the natural and understandable impediments to technology transfer, ISIS Canada is making great progress in expanding receptor capacity of the end users. We are delighted to have both the private sector and government agencies associated with infrastructure seek out our expertise and enter into partnerships with the ISIS Network. As a consequence, leading edge research has evolved to satisfy specific needs and field demonstration projects have been carried out to substantiate the laboratory findings. Enhanced Benefits to Canadians It has become patently clear to infrastructure owners that cost- effective measures must be found to cope with increasing transport loads and crumbling facilities. Consequently, solution-oriented research and exploring new methodologies by ISIS Canada are viewed positively by those who need answers. Working together through meaningful relationships enhances both the ISIS program and the long-term benefit to Canadians. All of this is particularly timely in view of the considerations underway to launch a major rehabilitation of our national highway system. One of our objectives is to ensure that such a rehabilitation program takes advantage of the progress made by ISIS and incorporates the new technologies. Manuals and Design Guidelines Draft manuals have been completed for the four major areas of the ISIS research program: Installation, Use and Repair of Fibre Optic Sensors; Guidelines for Structural Health Monitoring; Reinforcing Concrete Structures with Fibre Reinforced Polymers; and Strengthening Reinforced Concrete Structures with Externally Bonded Fibre Reinforced Polymers. Canadian Design Standards Members of the ISIS Network have made an enormous contribution to the development of the following two design codes: Canadian Standards Association (S806-00), "Design and Construction of Building Components with FRP"; Canadian Standards Association (S6), "Ontario Highway Bridge Design Code". Training Construction Technicians One of the constraints to technology utilization is the limited number of technicians in the construction industry who have experience incorporating fibre optic sensors and fibre reinforced polymers in the construction of civil engineering structures. ISIS Canada is endeavouring to overcome this barrier by developing relationships with technical colleges that offer courses for the construction sector.

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