Structural investigations are carried out to answer a fundamental question: what is happening inside this structure? Corrosion, delamination, section loss, voids and unknown reinforcement layouts within concrete all require evidence beneath the surface. Traditionally, structural investigations have relied heavily on intrusive methods such as drilling, coring and large breakouts. While effective, every opening in concrete carries consequences that extend beyond the immediate t

OBJECTIVES TRACE was instructed to undertake a non-intrusive structural investigation of nominated soffit areas on two bridges to accurately locate ducts and anchorages, and to identify any potential voids or defects. All works were completed during nightshifts under possession. SOLUTIONS TRACE deployed a two-stage non-intrusive workflow combining ground-penetrating radar (GPR) for precise duct location, and ultrasonic pulse echo (UPE) testing to assess internal duct conditio

Structural investigation technology has come a long way. Modern non-destructive testing allows us to look into structures without breaking into them in ways that were simply not possible before. We can now see reinforcement layouts, construction details, defects and indicators of deterioration beneath the surface, quickly and without causing damage. For existing and ageing structures, this has fundamentally changed what information can be gathered and how safely it can be don

OBJECTIVES TRACE was instructed to undertake a non-intrusive structural investigation of the underside of a bridge to assess the presence and severity of concrete delamination and the risk and extent of reinforcement corrosion within the bridge deck. The investigation was required to support maintenance planning and identify areas where targeted repair or further investigation would be justified. SOLUTIONS TRACE carried out an investigation from the underside of the bridge vi

We hear this quite often. Asset owners and engineers tell us: “In the past we have used multiple NDT techniques to varying success.” “We’ve been given data that just leaves us scratching our heads.” “In the end, we didn’t trust the results and just went intrusive anyway.” If that’s your experience, you’re not alone. The uncomfortable truth is that many non-intrusive structural investigations fail to deliver confidence. Not because the NDT methods used are flawed, but because

OBJECTIVES TRACE was instructed to undertake a non-intrusive structural investigation of a cantilever span box beam within a bridge approach structure. The investigation was required to resolve discrepancies in existing records by determining the as-built configuration of the box beam, with particular focus on the presence and location, of post-tensioning tendons and anchorages. SOLUTIONS TRACE developed a bespoke NIA investigation strategy combining complementary non-intrusi

When a teams requests a non-intrusive structural investigation, it’s usually because they don’t know what’s going on inside their structure. That uncertainty is the problem they’re trying to solve. They need answers so they can plan works, manage risk, and keep projects moving. Non-intrusive methods are often the fastest, safest way to get there, but like any engineering approach, they rely on understanding both capability and limitation. Investigations should be scoped caref

OBJECTIVES TRACE was instructed to undertake a non-intrusive structural investigation of the upstream and downstream spillways of a concrete dam to determine the presence and location of voids beneath the slabs. SOLUTIONS TRACE carried out investigations of two spillway areas: Upstream spillway: approximately 271 m² Downstream spillway: approximately 336 m²   All accessible areas of the spillways were scanned in a single direction using large-array GPR, providing continuous c