Elastic wave methods for NDE in concrete based on generalized theory of acoustic emission
Abstract The elastic wave methods for non destructive evaluation (NDE) in concrete are theoretically reviewed. These include basics of ultrasonic testing (UT) impact echo (IE) and acoustic emission (AE) Starting with the generalized theory of AE, it is shown that both elastic waves generated due to impact and AE waves due to cracking are rationally to be analyzed on the basis of elastodynamics. As applications of the techniques, on site measurements in concrete structures are discussed. This is because the long service life of infrastructure is to be an evolutional target. Deterioration due to aging and damage due to disasters in concrete structures have updated the urgent demand for inspection and maintenance. In order to extend the service life of the concrete structures, on site NDE techniques are to be developed for diagnosis and prognosis. Successful applications are updated and summarized.