On the study of surface wave propagation in concrete structures using a piezoelectric actuator/sensor system

Abstract

Concrete structures have been used widely in civil infrastructural systems. Due to the complex nature of the microstructure, nondestructive testing (NDT) of concrete inherently imposes many challenges, which can cause severe limitations on the resolution and the sensitivity of the signals observed. In this study, a numerical simulation based on the finite element (FE) model is first performed to investigate surface wave generation and reception using piezoelectric actuators/sensors, especially in relatively higher frequency cases. The results provide a basic understanding of some features of the microstructure effects on the surface wave propagation. Experimental testing is then conducted to validate the numerical simulation. The group velocity dispersion curves of the surface waves, which are very useful for future damage detection in concrete materials, are obtained from both numerical and experimental results. The good agreement shows the great potential and feasibility of using piezoelectric actuators/sensors to generate and receive surface waves for quantitative damage detection in concrete structures.

Non-Destructive Concrete Strength Evaluation Using PZT Based Surface Wave Propagation Technique – A Comparative Study

“…Combining Equation (2) and Equation (3), the concrete strength can be correlated to the R-wave velocity through a semi-empirical relationship as presented schematically in Figure …”

“…For instance, Luo and Bungey introduced a method to determine the dynamic modulus of elasticity for concrete using compression wave [1]. Moreover, Song et al conducted a study on SWP in concrete structures using a PZT actuator/sensor system [2]. To date, research on WP techniques focused mainly on SHM of metallic and composite structures [3][4][5].…”

Otkrivanje oštećenja armiranobetonskih konstrukcija primjenom piezoelektričnih pametnih agregata

“…Numerical model of PZT SA for monitoring shear seismic stresses in structures using d 15 piezoelectric mode is presented in paper [12], while the model for monitoring normal seismic stresses is developed and presented in paper [13]. The use of software package ANSYS to model PZT elements and propagation of waves through concrete beam elements for the purpose of damage detection is presented in papers [14,15]. According to available relevant literature, some studies have been made for the purpose of developing numerical models.…”

Piezoelectric actuator/sensor wave propagation based nondestructive active monitoring method of concrete structures

“…H Gu et al [8] proposed a piezoelectric-based strength monitoring method using piezoelectric transducers embedded into the concrete specimen during casting. F Song et al [9] .investigated the surface wave propagation in concrete beam by using surface-bonded PZT elements numerically and experimentally. Mingqing Sun et al [10] used piezoelectric ceramic sensors and ultrasonic wave method to monitor the dynamic elastic constants of concrete and cracks as part of the SHM system of concrete structures.…”