On-Site Non-Destructive Inspection of Bridges Using the 950 keV X-Band Electron Linac X-ray Source

Abstract

Regular diagnosis of the structural health of infrastructure, such as bridges, is indispensable to ensure safety and reliable operation of the society. Non-destructive tests based on X-ray imaging are powerful tools to inspect the inside of a concrete structure in detail. Establishing a diagnostic method of bridges based on X-ray visualization is required to examine the internal conditions and helps in the rationalization of maintenances. We demonstrated our 950 keV X-band electron linac based X-ray source for on-site actual bridge inspection and visualized the inner structure of a bottom floor slab. For the more precise inspection of the conditions of wires and rods, we applied three-dimensional image reconstruction methods for bridge mock-up samples. Partial angle computed tomography and tomosynthesis gave cross section images of the samples with 1 mm resolution. We are planning to investigate another part of the bridge, with the 950 keV X-ray system in the near future.