Infrared imaging for detection of defects in concrete structures

Abstract

Deterioration of concrete structures is an issue that affects the entire world and is brought on by various causes like climatic conditions, aging, attack of aggressive media, etc. Periodic inspections and proper maintenance are crucial to prevent the degradation of structures. Conventionally, the condition of the structures is monitored visually but over a while, non-destructive evaluation (NDE) technologies have gained significance and are expected to be successfully used for the inspection and management of civil structures. Infrared imaging is an effective NDT tool to monitor the health of civil structures. In this study, Infrared Thermography (IRT), an image-based method, is introduced and implemented for the assessment of concrete structures. Experiments on cement concrete cubes were conducted to investigate and enhance the applicability of the infrared thermography technique. The results are quite promising and helps to detect defects like delamination, voids, and cracks, etc. as the IR camera can pick-up the difference in temperature between sound and defective regions. However, the utilization of IRT for inspection poses many challenges but they can be overcome by combining it with other techniques like finite element method, acoustic emission and ultrasonic guided waves. Hence, the infra-red thermography technique is an excellent technology for practically evaluating concrete structures.