The Impact of the Protective Materials on Strain Gauge Deformation When Simulating Rowing and Canoeing Scenarios

Technological advancements in water sports, such as rowing and canoeing, have led to the increased use of strain gauges for improved structural analysis. However, the humid conditions inherent to these sports can affect strain gauges' performance, requiring waterproofing materials. This study aims to evaluate the effect of protective materials on strain gauge deformation in both dry and submerged conditions. Two types of protective materials were selected: one from the sensor manufacturer (ABM75) and the other for general applications (PECOL brand). The tests were conducted using a setup designed to apply a constant displacement to five carbon beam samples equipped with two parallel strain gauges for approximately 35 cycles. Inferential statistical analysis revealed no significant differences between the dry ABM75 and the control. However, differences were noted under other conditions. ANOVA tests with statistical parametric mapping (SPM) compared the materials' performance, showing variations in their response throughout the cycles, though less pronounced in dry conditions.