Abstract:
Many researchers have studied the dynamic response of ballasted railway track–bridge transition zones (RTBTZs) using different
instrumentation systems. The primary factor contributing to the frequent abnormal dynamic behavior of the RTBTZ is differential settlement
between the earthworks and structures, which is the main target for RTBTZ monitoring. These settlements result in an uneven longitudinal
rail profile in the foundation and embankment soils, and in the upper layers (ballast, subballast, and form layer). This paper provides a
comprehensive review based on potential new technologies for railway infrastructure monitoring. Limitations of different monitoring systems
such as point scale monitoring, the sensor’s long-term performance, different sensors for different output responses, and developing simplified
numerical modeling based on recorded data are discussed. In addition, opportunities to conduct efficient monitoring using a new generation of
sensors such as fiber optic sensors, smart self-sensing sensors, microelectromechanical system (MEMS) sensors, wireless sensing ballast
particles (SmartRock), large-scale sensoring, and remote sensing techniques such as drones and light detection and ranging (LiDar) are
presented