The dynamic response as a non destructive test for structures inspection and control

Abstract

In this paper a theoretical and experimental study about the possibility of detecting structural failures of structures and pathologies through the analysis of the dynamic response is presented. The first part of the paper deals with the theoretical analysis on the influence that changes in static scheme and cracking have on the dynamic behaviour of concrete structures. In the second part, an evaluation of dynamic parameters that may be influenced by the common pathologies of concrete bridges and other structrues is carried out. Finally, the theroetical method is checked with a set of laboratory tests carried out on concrete beams built with a simulated pathology, obtaining very satisfactory results and deducing important conclusions connceting with the experimental method know-how and the analysis of structure vibrations signals recorded.