Impact-Echo Defect Detection in Reinforced Concrete Bridge Decks without Overlays
Publication: Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities
Volume 35, Issue 5
Abstract
To effectively manage their inventory, transportation authorities are switching to nondestructive testing methods, such as the impact-echo method, to facilitate locating subsurface defects in reinforced concrete bridge decks. In this study, 17 bridge deck specimens with simulated delaminations, voids, deterioration, and poorly constructed concrete were fabricated at different moisture contents to determine what types of defects of varying size and depth can be detected using impact-echo testing. A modified receiver operator characteristic analysis was conducted to assess which types of defects can be discerned from sound concrete. Frequency contour plots for each specimen were used to evaluate how defect characteristics, such as delamination thickness, affect defect detectability. Results indicate that impact echo is generally effective at responding to the presence of delaminations, voids, deterioration, and poorly constructed concrete in bridge decks without overlays. It was found that moisture content does not significantly influence impact-echo readings. This paper also presents other observations regarding how defect thickness, size, and depth affect detectability. The findings of this study support a more effective nondestructive evaluation of in-service concrete bridge decks without overlays using impact-echo testing.
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Data Availability Statement
Some or all data, models, or code that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request. Such items include frequency contour plots of those specimens that could not be included in this article and images of other extracted cores.
Acknowledgments
Funding for this study was provided by the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT). The funding, cooperation, and assistance of ALDOT are gratefully acknowledged. The contents of this paper reflect the views of the authors who are responsible for the facts and accuracy of the data presented. The contents do not necessarily reflect the official views or policies of ALDOT.
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Published In
Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities
Volume 35 • Issue 5 • October 2021
Copyright
© 2021 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Jan 21, 2021
Accepted: May 19, 2021
Published online: Jul 24, 2021
Published in print: Oct 1, 2021
Discussion open until: Dec 24, 2021
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