Infrared Imaging for Damage Detection in Concrete Structures

Abstract

Deterioration of the structures occurs due to various factors like aging, climatic conditions, etc. Degradation of concrete structures is a widespread problem worldwide. In order to prevent imminent degradation of structures, proper maintenance and periodic inspections are imperative. Traditionally, condition of the structure has been monitored visually, non-destructive evaluating (NDE) technologies have also been evolving and they are expected to be utilized effectively for the management and inspection of civil structures. One of the various NDE techniques is the image based technology. In this research image-based technology using Infrared Thermography (IRT) is introduced and implemented. In order to explore and enhance the usability of infrared thermography technique, experiments on various construction materials like bricks, interlocking tiles, steel rods, cement mortar cubes, cement concrete cubes were conducted. Delamination detection on the concrete structures was also performed. The results are quite promising and are helpful in detecting defects like cracks, voids, delaminations, etc. as the IR camera can capture the temperature difference between sound and defective areas. However, there are many challenges in using IRT for inspection but it can be overcome by combining it with other techniques like ultrasonic emission, acoustic emission and finite element method. Hence, infrared thermography technique is an excellent technology for assessing the concrete structures in a practical way.