Leveraging Multi-Temporal InSAR Technique for Long-Term Structural Behaviour Monitoring of High-Speed Railway Bridges

Abstract

The effective monitoring of railway facilities is crucial for safety and operational efficiency. This study proposes an enhanced remote monitoring technique for railway facilities, specifically bridges, using satellite radar InSAR (Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar) technology. Previous studies faced limitations such as insufficient data points and challenges with topographical and structural variations. Our approach addresses these issues by analysing displacements from 30 images captured by the X-band SAR satellite, TerraSAR-X, over two years. We tested each InSAR parameter to develop an optimal set of parameters, applying the technique to a post-tensioned PSC (pre-stressed concrete) box bridge. Our findings revealed a recurring arch-shaped elevation along the bridge, attributed to temporal changes and long-term deformation. Further analysis showed a strong correlation between this deformation pattern and average surrounding temperature. This indicates that our technique can effectively identify micro-displacements due to temperature changes and structural deformation. Thus, the technique provides a theoretical foundation for improved SAR monitoring of large-scale social overhead capital (SOC) facilities, ensuring efficient maintenance and management.