Abstract
Fiber optic sensors (FOSs) are being extensively developed and utilized in various fields due to their exclusive properties compared with conventional sensing technologies, such as their complete immunity to electromagnetic interference, capability of functioning in hostile surroundings, elevated sensitivity, and user-friendliness. The deterioration of concrete structures over time is one of the major growing problems worldwide. The characteristics of FOSs can provide more accurate and precise detection of crack damage in these structures. In this paper, the latest research and progress activities regarding crack detection in concrete structures have been investigated and discussed. This paper also provides a comprehensive critical review and comparison study of various approaches used in detecting crack damage using FOSs. A separate section is devoted to highlight the areas where further improvements are required. The compatibility and sustainability of the latest FOSs in detecting damage have also been studied and evaluated in this paper.