Classification of Nondestructive Evaluation Tasks for Reinforced Concrete Structures

Abstract

Nondestructive evaluation (NDE) methods have received growing acceptance in many testing tasks in the assessment of concrete infrastructures. Substantial progress in NDE methods for concrete structures can be achieved by discussing the specifics of each testing scenario. Because of the large variety of testing scenarios, the testing tasks must be isolated into subtasks, which can then be solved by NDE methods. A classification scheme for NDE tasks is described and discussed in this paper. Four major groups have been identified: the construction process, the concrete structure, physical or chemical processes, and material properties. For each of these groups, a number of subtasks are described. Typical parameter ranges and resolution requirements are illustrated and major influencing factors listed. Reference specimens may be designed to be used for performance evaluation, validation, and certification of NDE methods. The classifications can also be used to draft a research road map that benefits both the owners of infrastructure and the instrument developers.