Guided Wave based Debonding Detection for CFRP-reinforced Steel Structures

The bonding of carbon fibre reinforcement polymer (CFRP) is an efficient way to renovate the aging or damaged steel structures, however, the debonding problem can be fatal for the retrofitted structures. This research employs both nonlinear and linear ultrasonic guided waves to achieve the detection of micro and macro scale debonding in the CFRP-reinforced steel structures. The complete progress of debonding from the initiation to propagation can be monitored. This study provides more confidence for the application of CFRP composite as the externally bonded reinforcement to strengthen the steel structures and further ensures the functionality of the retrofitted structures.