Infrared thermography for non-destructive identification of reinforcement in concrete

[摘要] Infrared thermographic technique is investigated numerically and experimentally to identify reinforcing steel in concrete members. Other non-destructive techniques, such as the ultrasonic technique, are subject to errors due to large scatter in sound wave propagation velocity for the different components of concrete. Since thermal conductivity and heat capacity are less influenced by the composite nature of concrete, thermography remains a promising alternative.A finite element based numerical analysis demonstrated the feasibility of thermography as an evaluation technique for reinforcement in concrete. Based on the understanding developed from the numerical simulations, experimental tests were conducted in 10 concrete specimens containing bars of various sizes and clear cover. The temperature measurements with infrared probes on the surface of the specimens clearly identified the bars up to one inch clear cover. More refined processing and imaging technique are needed to identify bars at larger depth.

[发布机构] Rice University

[效力级别] engineering