Subsurface defect detection in concrete by active infrared thermography

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

4 Citations (Scopus)
87 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

This paper presents observations from an active infrared thermography (IRT) experiment about structural monitoring by taking advantage from solar irradiance as a clean and renewable source of energy for thermal excitation. This contributes to reduction of carbon emissions associated with maintenance of existing concrete infrastructure and ensuring their extended life, and safe operation. The models in these observations were five concrete slabs made from a typical mix used for bridge construction in the UK, with simulated subsurface void (representing the defect) at depths of 5 to 25 mm (5mm increment) at the centre of slabs, and one slab without simulated defect. This study was conducted during a sunny afternoon. A sequence of IR images was collected for each slab (six sequences in total), and these sequences were used to calculate the average thermal contrast on surface of the slabs and evaluate its variation with depth of subsurface defect. Finally, the trend of thermal contrast is compared with the trend of thermal contrast from excitation by IR heater to highlight the limitations and future research needs for subsurface damage detection using solar irradiance.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the IABSE Symposium Prague 2022: challenges for existing and oncoming structures
Place of PublicationZurich, Switzerland
PublisherInternational Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering (IABSE)
Pages431-436
ISBN (Print)9783857481833
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 27 May 2022
EventIABSE Symposium: Challenges for Existing and Oncoming Structures - Prague Congress Centre, Prague, Czech Republic
Duration: 25 May 202227 May 2022
https://iabse.org/prague2022

Publication series

NameIABSE Reports
PublisherInternational Association of Bridge and Structural Engineering
Number118

Conference

ConferenceIABSE Symposium
Country/TerritoryCzech Republic
CityPrague
Period25/05/202227/05/2022
Internet address

Keywords

  • damage detection
  • structural health monitoring (SHM)
  • Carbon Reduction
  • Infrared thermography (IRT)
  • Concrete infrastructure
  • Non-destructive testing (NDT)

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Subsurface defect detection in concrete by active infrared thermography'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this