Propagation properties of ultrasonic guided waves in rebar-reinforced concrete beams were investigated in this study for the purpose of damage detection. Rectangular PZT patches were attached at both exposed ends of the rebar to monitor wave transmission along the rebar with and without simulated corrosion in the form of partial material removal of the rebar. Experimental testing demonstrated that the presence of concrete had a significant influence on the propagation of guided waves along the rebar. In consideration of the inevitable discrepancies in different concrete beams due to individual specimen preparation and sensor installation, the concept of time reversal was applied to each rebar for self-comparison to highlight the difference between benchmark and damaged rebars. The results show the potential of the proposed approach for quantifying the integrity condition of concrete structures
Propagation properties of ultrasonic guided waves in rebar-reinforced concrete beams were investigated in this study for the purpose of damage detection. Rectangular PZT patches were attached at both exposed ends of the rebar to monitor wave transmission along the rebar with and without simulated corrosion in the form of partial material removal of the rebar. Experimental testing demonstrated that the presence of concrete had a significant influence on the propagation of guided waves along the rebar. In consideration of the inevitable discrepancies in different concrete beams due to individual specimen preparation and sensor installation, the concept of time reversal was applied to each rebar for self-comparison to highlight the difference between benchmark and damaged rebars. The results show the potential of the proposed approach for quantifying the integrity condition of concrete structures