Non-Destructive Methods for the Detection of Delaminations in Concrete Bridge Decks

To detect delaminations in concrete bridge decks, the non-destructive techniques (NDT) permit a frequent inspection of the slabs without damaging the structures.
Within this study, twelve samples were realized, presenting diverse horizontal defects simulating delaminations. They were scanned with high frequency GPR with the common offset (CO) and common mid point (CMP) methods.
The electromagnetic waves speed and defects depth were determined from the CMPs. A 3D visualization program was also created to display the CO measurements.
The visibility of the inserted defects revealed to be dependent on their lateral extension, their thickness and especially their constitutive material.