Non destructive testing of structures

Abstract

This textbook has been written to provide civil and structural engineering students and professionals with background information needed to test and assess masonry arch bridges with the help of non-destructive tools. This textbook focuses on methods of Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) for railway masonry arch bridges primarily but the methodology described can be used on highway structures as well. Various NDT methods are shown and compared considering several aspects such as cost efficiency, reliability of measured data, easiness of implementation, level of disturbance to traffic, etc. The principles of the methods and the required equipment for their use are briefly described. Results of field tests are discussed that were performed by the Structural Diagnostics and Analysis Research Group of the University of Pécs in co-operation with Eötvös Loránd Geophysical Institute and ORISOFT Engineering Consulting Ltd., Hungary. The text also includes descriptions of investigations and experiences gained by tests carried out at European railway administrations Special attention is given to and detailed guidance is provided in this document on the following methods: georadar, seismic tomography, infrared thermography and boroscopy. This textbook should be considered as an initial document, as it does not fully explore the full range of possibilities for non-destructive inspection of arch bridges. These techniques constitute a continuously developing topic that still require a great deal of research. It is also recommended therefore that students become thoroughly familiar with the most current recommended practices as well. The author hopes that this textbook will interest a new generation of young people in considering their careers in bridge engineering and non-destructive testing of historical structures.