Non-destructive inspection technologies for repair assessment in materials and structures

Abstract

Aging infrastructure globally faces degradation, posing risks and requiring substantial repair investment. Strategic maintenance practices are crucial for evaluating structural conditions and ensuring sustainability. The growing demands on modern materials and structures necessitate enhanced health monitoring approaches. Shifting from reactive to proactive maintenance methodologies is paramount, due to lower investment while keeping the structural performance at acceptable standards. However, quantitative assurance of repair/reinforcement/retrofit programs or self-healing effect in structures is similarly crucial for the operation of the infrastructure. Non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques, such as ultrasound, acoustic emission, and optical methods, play a vital role in assessing structural health. Through real-world case studies, the effectiveness of repair in addition to damage assessment are evaluated, encouraging a more systematic approach to monitoring structural repair efficacy. The paper intends to address the research gap in monitoring the repair effectiveness in civil structures and materials and provides valuable insights to enhance repair strategies in civil engineering.