Recent developments of EM non-destructive testing in the radar frequency-band for the evaluation of cover concretes

This paper deals with the recent developments in France on the use of electromagnetic (EM) non-destructive techniques (NDT) to assess indicators of concrete conditions and durability of reinforced concrete structures. Through several National Projects, electromagnetic characterization on homogeneous concretes has been regularly studied in laboratories, by using as well specific cells as testing EM NDT techniques, such as ground-penetrating radar, capacitive or electric ones. Results show the great potential of the sensitivity and the complementarities of such ND techniques to give quantitative information on the surveyed concrete structures.