Advanced Non-Destructive Testing Technology System for Civil Engineering Based on Impact Elastic Waves

Abstract

Aging civil infrastructure has created a growing need for efficient, objective, and scalable condition assessment. Conventional nondestructive testing (NDT) methods are often limited by low inspection throughput, fragmented datasets, and operator-dependent interpretation. This paper presents an intelligent NDT system for civil and railway engineering based on impact-induced elastic waves. The proposed system is grounded in elastic-wave propagation and reflection in solid media and exploits the strong impedance contrast between concrete and air-filled defects. It integrates several field methods, including impact echo (IE), impact acoustic echo (IAE), impact laser echo (ILE), P-wave and R-wave computed tomography (CT), and elastic wave radar (EWR). A Software Defined Inspection (SDI) architecture separates data acquisition from software processing, enabling portable cloud-enabled terminals and centralized data management. Machine-learning and computer-vision models, including YOLO [3] , support automated signal interpretation and defect recognition. Field applications involving prestressed duct grouting, tunnel lining assessment, mass concrete, tunnel inverts, underground pipelines, and embedded rod-like elements demonstrate that the combined impact-elastic-wave, AI, and cloud-terminal framework can improve the accuracy, efficiency, and consistency of infrastructure maintenance.