Determination of concrete structural defects by infrared spectrum analysis

Abstract

After loading, various damages and air inclusions are formed in the structure of concrete. It is natural that these changes have an influence on the thermal properties of concrete. The aim of this investigation was to find the relationship between different percentage of damage and temperature distribution in concrete after heating. The influence of different damage on temperature distribution in concrete was determined. Infrared spectrum analysis was used for determination of temperature distribution. This method is based on the principle that subsurface anomalies in a material result in localized differences in surface temperature caused by different rates of heat transfer at the defect zones. Three specimens for every percentage of damage were used for each determination of temperature distribution. The specimens were heated, and at the same time it was observed the heat transfer and heat distribution in concrete specimens. Results of the experiment show that infrared spectrum can be used in early stages concrete damage detection.