Debond Detection using Embedded Piezoelectric Elements in Reinforced Concrete Structures - Part I: Experiment

Abstract

An investigation is performed to detect debond in reinforced concrete structures. This study utilizes built-in piezoelectric discs as sensors and actuators in a pitch-catch mode to generate sensor data, which are sensitive to debond in reinforced concrete. A comparison of sensor measurements or signal changes before and after maintenance or inspection can be correlated to debonding. Both experimental and analytical works are performed during the study. Experimental study and test data are presented in this article. The test results clearly indicate that debond between concrete and rebar and yielding in rebar can be detected with built-in piezoelectric sensors and actuators in a pitch-catch mode.

Defect detection around rebars in concrete using focused ultrasound and reverse time migration

“…The size of concrete medium is 0.40 m  0.25 m  0.30 m. There are five rebars embedded in two layers. Two of these rebars have simulated damage in the form of less than 1 mm thick styrofoam wrap at some portions of their length as shown in Fig 5. Experimental simulation of finite debonds on rebars using PVC wraps [57] and delaminations in concrete using foam have already been previously reported in [58,59].…”

“…In this context, ultrasound can be used as a complementary tool to the GPR modality for assessment of damage in concrete. Besides GPR there are methods based on half-cell potential measurements [6] or usage of embedded piezoelectric sensors for detection of delaminations or material damage in rebars [7,8]. The half-cell potential technique requires access to the exposed end of a rebar which may not be always possible in various structures.…”

Numerical modeling of damage detection in concrete beams using piezoelectric patches

“…Monitoring and detection of cracks caused by dynamic effects is performed to the shear walls [15], columns [17,18] and reinforce concrete frames [2]. Deboned detection using embedded piezoelectric elements in reinforced concrete beams was analyzed in paper [7]. Smart http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.mechrescom.2014.12.007 0093-6413/© 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.…”

Numerical analysis of PZT rebar active sensing system for structural health monitoring of RC structure

“…In fact, PZT elements are very suitable for integration into the concrete structures as an in-situ actuator/sensor because of the low cost and the properties mentioned above. Recently, an active sensing diagnostic system using PZT for SHM of concrete structures has been under investigation [6] .…”