Taxonomy of non-destructive field tests of bridge materials and structures

Bridges generally are susceptible to deterioration, thus in such a situation precise information on characteristics and condition of their materials and structural systems based on results of diagnostic procedures is crucial for safety of the structures and users of the transportation infrastructure and also for efficient management of bridge asset. The main purpose of this work is to propose an approach to integrated classification of contemporary non-destructive field tests as a part of general strategy of diagnostic investigations of bridge materials and structures. Analysis of the most frequent degradation stimulators and mechanisms as well as main classes of bridge defects form a background for presented classification of diagnostic tests. The classification includes load-independent and load-dependent testing strategies and takes into account type of tested material and diagnostic goals: geometry identification, assessment of materials characteristics and quality, detection of defects and degradation processes as well as monitoring of bridge structure response to loads and environmental influences. (C) 2019 Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of Politechnika Wroclawska.