Title:
Nondestructive Evaluation of Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer-Concrete Bond Using Infrared Thermography
Author(s):
John M. Levar and H. R. (Trey) Hamilton III
Publication:
Materials Journal
Volume:
100
Issue:
1
Appears on pages(s):
63-72
Keywords:
bond; concrete; fiber-reinforced polymer; strength.
DOI:
10.14359/12464
Date:
1/1/2003
Abstract:
Bonded carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites are rapidly gaining acceptance as a feasible solution for repair and strengthening of concrete structures. A reliable method of nondestructive evaluation (NDE) is needed to monitor the installation quality and the long-term efficacy of the repair. This paper presents research into the use of infrared (IR) thermography to evaluate bonded CFRP composites used to strengthen concrete beams. Reinforced concrete beams were constructed and then strengthened with several configurations of wet layup or precured laminate CFRP composites. Two beam configurations were used to force either a shear failure mode or a flexural failure mode. IR inspections were conducted on the CFRP composite systems before loading to determine the extent of bond. The beams were then tested statically to failure. Periodically during load testing, IR inspections were conducted to determine the amount and characteristics of bond damage. Results indicated that IR inspections were able to consistently determine loss of bond as loading progressed.