Document Type

Thesis

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Thesis with Distinction

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Thesis adviser: Dr. Nicole Martino

Abstract

This study investigates how ground penetrating radar (GPR) can be used to estimate chloride content in reinforced concrete bridge decks. Chloride buildup at the rebar level can lead to corrosion and structural damage, but current testing methods are destructive and limited to small sample areas. GPR offers a non-destructive alternative, but interpreting reflection amplitudes is challenging because they are affected by multiple factors, including moisture content and rebar depth. To address this, a simulation-based calibration method was developed. Finite-difference time-domain simulations were used to study how chloride, moisture, and rebar depth influence GPR reflection amplitudes. A depth correction method was applied to separate the effect of signal attenuation from chloride-related changes. Master curves were then generated to relate amplitude differences to chloride content under controlled conditions. The results showed good agreement between simulated and field data, supporting the use of this approach. A MATLAB graphical user interface (GUI) was also developed to simplify the simulation process and allow for faster analysis. Overall, this work improves the interpretation of GPR data and supports the development of non-destructive methods for assessing chloride content in bridge decks.

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