Non-Destructive Testing and Evaluation of Masonry Bridges

Non- Destructive Testing and Evaluation

OUTLINE
Introduction
i. Importance of Masonry Structures ii. Testing and Evaluation Methods iii. Destructive Methods iv. Non-Destructive Methods

Example
i. Ground Penetrating Radar ii. Infrared Termography iii. Load Test Example

Conclusion
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INTRODUCTION
The evaluation of performance of existing masonry buildings is one of the most encountered problem in Turkey.

To evaluate these buildings, basically, Destructive and NonDestructive Methods can be used. Destructive methods can be used when structure is suitable (not heritage buildings, destruction is not important) Non-destructive methods can be used when destructive methods are not permitted (heritage buildings, active structures) 3

DESTRUCTIVE METHODS
Destructive methods in Masonry Buildings

Core Samples

Laboratory compression tests

In-situ shear tests

NON-DESTRUCTIVE METHODS
NDT methods for masonry structures and bridges
Inspection method Visual Proof load test Coring Parameter measured Surface condition Load carrying capacity Specific internal dimensions Mode shapes and/or signature Mode shapes and/or signature Delamination, surface condition Advantage Quick; modest skills required Definitive Definitive dimensions Gives some indirect measure of current condition Gives some indirect measure of current condition Disadvantage Superficial Very slow and possibly dangerous Cost Low Very high

Vibration testing

Measurement only at test point; scars the bridge Difficult to quantify data; heavily damped masonry bridges give yield little response
Difficult to quantify data; heavily damped masonry bridges give yield little response Requires experience in details

Moderately high
High

Impact testing

Moderate

Infrared termography

Relatively quick

Moderate

Sonics

Conductivity

Wave velocity; Moderately slow; gives useful tomographic crossRequires skill to interpret data information on major elements sections Quick; gives relative Relative Limited depth penetration of 1.5 m; conductivities over a large area conductivity complements radar to a maximum depth of 1.5 m Electromagnetic wave velocity Quick; can give good penetration; can give good image of internal structure Poor penetration through clay infill and salt contaminated fill; requires skill to understand data

Moderately high

Low

Radar

Moderately 5 high

NON-DESTRUCTIVE METHODS
The several NDT methods can be applied in evaluation or investigation before analysis. It is called as multi-level assesment system.
Phase 1: visual inspection. Phase 2: analysis of load carrying capacity. Phase 3: review need for further investigation if none, then revert to routine visual inspection schedule. If further investigation required, then proceed to Phase 4. Phase 4: desk study Phase 5: cost effectively choose the most suitable strategy for further investigation

Phase 6: implement the investigation technique.

EXAMPLE
Arch type of masonry bridge

Multi-level assessment

EXAMPLE
Ground Penetrating Radar

EXAMPLE
Infrared Termography

EXAMPLE
Load Test Example

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EXAMPLE

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CONCLUSIONS

NDT methods should be used when destruction is not permitted.

A multi-level assessment system is recommended for masonry arch railway

bridges utilising the potential of various in-situ nondestructive testing procedures .

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CONCLUSIONS
To establish reliable input data for the assessment of masonry arch bridges, the application of effective inspection and measurement methods are needed. In order to minimise damage to the structure destructive testing

methods should be complemented and replaced by NDT.

NDT methods can help verify some key input parameters that are required
for numerical analysis and provide an overall qualitative assessment of the structure.

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