Application of Radar and Thermography to Bridge Deck Condition Surveys

Abstract

This paper summarizes the theoretical and practical aspects ofthe application of radar and thermography to bridge deck condition surveys. A prolotype vehicle was developed. The radar wavej(Jrms and the thermographic images were calibrated in the{ield to variousforms ofphysical distress. lt is shmvn that radar and thermography are usefid toolsj(Jr assessing the condition of bridge decks and that the tH·o technologies are complementary; thermography is most usefulfor locating suhsurface defccts on exposed concrete swfaces and radar is most applicable to detecting defccts in concrete deck s/ahs which have a hituminous surfacing.