ConSensor’s
competitive edge
- Sensors in lengths of 3 and 10 metres for use in mass concrete, regardless of thickness
- Measurement data to establish concrete mix calibration in the lab and to monitor temperature and strength development on site
- Reliable measurements of the temperature gradient and ambient temperature to assess the risk of cracking
Project data
- New construction: Nuon Magnum Power Plant Eemshaven (NL)
- Contractor: Ballast Nedam
- Concrete supplier: Oost-Groninger Betonmortelcentrale
- Concrete consultant: Bouwsucces (Dr. A. van Beek)
- Architect: RHDHV
- Notable: First climate-neutral power plant
- Construction period: 2009 – 2013
Monitoring temperature gradient helps contain crack formation
Ballast Nedam poured the mass concrete foundation for the Nuon power plant in Eemshaven. By deploying sensors in the middle and at the top of the mass, the builders used ConSensor to confirm that temperature differences were within the required limits and that curing occurred at an even rate. Doing this let the builders verify minimal crack formation as the concrete hardened.
Early success on a massive pour
In one of its first-ever field tests, ConSensor determined the calibration curves before construction began at the Oost-Groninger Concrete Plant using both weighted-maturity and electrical-conductivity measurement methods. After the concrete was poured on site, the construction crew used these calibration curves to monitor its strength at various points across the foundation as it hardened. The sensors also helped them scrupulously follow the temperature gradient and track the risk of cracking.