Nondestructive Evaluation Techniques and Their Role in Infrastructure Management

Chou, Y. J. (Eddie); ,

Nondestructive Evaluation Techniques and Their Role in Infrastructure Management

by Y. J. (Eddie) Chou, Univ of Toledo, Toledo, United States,

Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Infrastructure: Planning and Management

Abstract:

Nondestructive evaluation (NDE) techniques can play an important role in infrastructure management. They can be used to assess current condition a well as to predict future performance of existing structures. The use of NDE methods permit frequent and thorough evaluation of materials and structures. They have been widely used in manufacturing and aerospace industries to detect flaws in materials. The major NDE techniques that have found applications in infrastructure evaluation include visual inspection methods, deformation methods, ultrasonic methods, acoustic emission methods, modal analysis methods, electromagnetic methods and radiographic methods. The principles of these techniques have been well documented. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the issues that need to be considered when selecting a specific NDE technique and to compare the advantages and disadvantages of the major NDE techniques as they are being applied to infrastructure management.

Return to search