Title:
Concretoscopy for Structural Inspection
Author(s):
Mahmod M. Samman and Michael W. O’neill
Publication:
Concrete International
Volume:
19
Issue:
10
Appears on pages(s):
63-66
Keywords:
air voids; cracking (fracturing); inspection; nondestructive tests;
recording instruments;
DOI:
Date:
10/1/1997
Abstract:
Concretoscopy, also known as fiber-optic logging, is a method for visually inspecting internal components of concrete structures to ascertain whether potential defects are present. Fiber-optic techniques are used to photograph the concrete from small transparent tubes embedded in the concrete. The method was used successfully to detect simulated and actual defects in both laboratory and full-scale structures. Construction and service-life defects found included voids, soil caving (in foundations), leached concrete, and cracking.