A Comparison Between Ground Penetrating Radar and a Rebar Locator for Obtaining Information on Reinforcing Bars in a Concrete Structure

To evaluate structural components and materials, non-destructive testing (NDT) methods can be implemented, which refers to the testing procedures that do not typically cause any damage to the structure. The ability to locate flaws and defects within a structure is important to ensure safety. Specifically in reinforced concrete (RC) structures, obtaining information related to the reinforcing steel members is possible through NDT. The focus of this study was to compare data on the rebar in an existing concrete floor with implementation of two NDT instruments: ground penetrating radar (GPR) and a rebar locator. These are ultra-wideband devices that have the capability to locate metallic objects beneath the surface. The information collected in this research consisted of the spacing of the rebar and the concrete cover thickness, which were compared to the specifications on the blueprint of the building