NDT not only allows the evaluation of aged and deteriorated structures; it also can be used in quality control of new structures. Once the structure is monitored, the lifetime can be predicted, and consequently, the treatment and recovery become easier and more economic.
NDT plays a very important role in the conditional assessment of RCC structures. In order to diagnose the integrity of the existing structure, different sets of Non-Destructive techniques are adopted. A few of the non-destructive techniques are as follows:
Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity Test
- To detect the homogeneity of the concrete
- presence of cracks, voids, and other imperfections
- quality of the concrete in relation to standard requirements
- To identify the depth of cracks
Rebound Hammer Test
- To access the surface hardness of concrete
- To access the compressive strength of concrete with the help of suitable co-relations between rebound index and compressive strength
- To access the uniformity of concrete
Carbonation Test
- To determine the extent of carbon dioxide infiltration into the concrete
- Provides immediate test results
- Evaluates the chloride content profile
- pH value to assess the corrosive environment
Half-cell Electrical Potential Test
- To determine the corrosion activity of the reinforcing steel
Core Sampling Test
- Visual examination
- Void’s estimation
- Determines parameters like density, carbonation depth, water absorption, etc.
Profometer
- Detects the location of rebars
- Detects the diameter of rebar
- Evaluates the depth of concrete cover
