Abstract
Use of non-destructive inspection is quite effective to make reasonable plans for both maintenance in existing concrete structures and quality control in new concrete constructions. Therefore, the role of non-destructive inspection to keep safety and reliability of concrete structures is supposed to become greater.
In the chapters related to “Inspection” in standard specifications for concrete structures -2001 “Maintenance” (from chapter 5 to chapter 9) published by Japan Society of Civil Engineers, it is encouraged to use non-destructive inspections in parallel with others methods. Moreover, in chapter 10 (techniques of testing and surveying), classification and summary of non-destructive inspection methods are presented. On the other hand, in “Diagnosis technology for concrete structures [Basic]” published by Japan Concrete Institute, outline of non-destructive inspection for diagnosis of concrete structures is demonstrated. In this way, non-destructive inspection has been especially increased its applications during maintenance of concrete structure.
This paper describes classification of methods, basic principle and characteristics of each method, evaluation indices and targets of non-destructive inspections for diagnosis of concrete structures. At first, Japanese standards and recommendations for non-destructive inspection of concrete are listed. Next, target of evaluation of non-destructive inspection is classified among “quality (strength) of concrete”, “internal defects” and “detection of reinforcing bar location”, then summary of each inspection methods is explained respectively. Inspection methods using digital camera or laser system, robot with sensor are introduced. Finally, future prospect of non-destructive inspection is discussed from the standpoint of better use for concrete structures.
