Field verification of a nondestructive damage location algorithm

Over the past 25 years, the use of modal parameters for detecting damage has received considerable attention from the civil engineering community. The basic idea is that changes in the structure`s properties, primarily stiffness, will alter the dynamic properties of the structure such as frequencies and mode shapes, and properties derived from these quantities such as modal-based flexibility. In this paper, a method for nondestructive damage location in bridges, as determined by changes in the modal properties, is described. The damage detection algorithm is applied to pre- and post-damage modal properties measured on a bridge. Results of the analysis indicate that the method accurately locates the damage. Subjects relating to practical implementation of this damage identification algorithm that need further study are discussed