Deployment of Ground Penetrating Radar and Ultrasonic Tomographer Nondestructive Techniques for Assessment of Corrosion-Deteriorated Adjacent Pre-stressed Concrete Box Beams

The objective of this study was to study and evaluate the use of ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and ultrasonic tomography (MIRA) techniques for assessment of corrosion-induced deterioration of adjacent pre-stressed concrete box beams. In the first step, an extensive review of literature and state-of-the-practices was performed to identify the research gaps with respect to the study problem. In the second step, experimental testing of reinforced concrete (RC) specimens with pre-planned defects was conducted using the two techniques to understand their capabilities and limitations. Based on electromagnetic (EM) wave propagation, GPR was found to be an effective technology for identifying concrete areas affected by corrosion. The data obtained can be used to generate two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) images that visualize reinforcing bar arrangement and areas of likely reinforced concrete corrosion. A limitation of GPR is that it is unlikely to detect delaminations, especially those are not induced by corrosion. With respect to MIRA, it can be employed to find reinforcing bars, pre-stressing tendons, voids and delaminations in concrete, or to estimate the thickness of a concrete member. Like the GPR, the data collected by MIRA can be used to reconstruct 2D or 3D images of reinforced concrete structures. Thus, the defects and objects of interest can be seen in 2D or 3D space. A limitation of the MIRA is that it is insensitive to the electrical properties of concrete such as dielectric constant or electrical conductivity. As a result, it is not suitable to detect early signs of reinforced concrete corrosion. Another limitation of MIRA is that it takes a considerable amount of time to survey a structure. Given the advantages and limitations of each technology, it is concluded that the combined use of GPR and MIRA techniques enables a comprehensive assessment of corrosion-deteriorated adjacent pre-stressed concrete box beams. It is recommended herein that the GPR should be used first to quickly assess and identify areas of highly corrosive environment. The MIRA should only be used for in-depth inspection to evaluate potential damages in the areas of likely reinforced concrete corrosion found by the GPR.

• Record URL:
  http://www.matsutc.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Final-Report-MATS-Project-on-GPR-and-Ultrasonic-Tomographer-for-PC-Box-Beams.pdf
• 
• Supplemental Notes:
  • This document was sponsored by the U.S. Department of Transportation, University Transportation Centers Program.
• Corporate Authors:

  Mid-Atlantic Transportation Sustainability Center

  University of Virginia
  Charlottesville, VA  United States 

  Marshall University

  Marshall University Research Corporation
  One John Marshall Drive
  Huntington, WV  United States  25755

  Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology

  University Transportation Centers Program
  Department of Transportation
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Authors:
  • Zatar, Wael
  • Ozbulut, Osman
• Publication Date: 2018-8

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Digital/other
• Features: Figures; Photos; References; Tables;
• Pagination: 87p

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Box beams; Concrete structures; Corrosion; Deterioration; Ground penetrating radar; Inspection; Nondestructive tests; Prestressed concrete; Reinforced concrete; Tomography; Ultrasonic detectors
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Highways; Maintenance and Preservation;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01689896
• Record Type: Publication
• Contract Numbers: DTRT13-G-UTC33
• Files: UTC, TRIS, ATRI, USDOT
• Created Date: Dec 27 2018 10:59AM