Abstract: The present application provides an apparatus comprising a radio frequency identification (RFID) sensor comprising: an antenna configured to receive an interrogation signal from a reader and to transmit a response signal to the reader; at least one integrated circuit (IC) connected to the antenna; and at least one sensing element. The apparatus further comprises a channel for directing transmission of signals between the antenna and the reader, wherein the RFID sensor is attached or directly adjacent to a first end of the channel. The sensing element is responsive to a change induced by its environment to switch from a conductive state to a non-conductive state, or from a non-conductive state to a conductive state. The present application further provides a method for monitoring the integrity or the change in environment of a buried structure using the RFID sensor-containing apparatus.

Abstract: The present application provides an apparatus comprising a radio frequency identification (RFID) sensor comprising: an antenna configured to receive an interrogation signal from a reader and to transmit a response signal to the reader; at least one integrated circuit (IC) connected to the antenna; and at least one sensing element. The apparatus further comprises a channel for directing transmission of signals between the antenna and the reader, wherein the RFID sensor is attached or directly adjacent to a first end of the channel. The sensing element is responsive to a change induced by its environment to switch from a conductive state to a non-conductive state, or from a non-conductive state to a conductive state. The present application further provides a method for monitoring the integrity or the change in environment of a buried structure using the RFID sensor-containing apparatus.