Early Detection and Analysis of Cavity Defects in Concrete Columns Based on Infrared Thermography and Finite Element Analysis

Concrete, known for its high strength, durability, and flexibility, is a core material in construction. However, defects such as voids and honeycombing often occur due to improper pouring or vibration, weakening the concrete's strength and affecting its long-term performance. These defects typically require costly repairs. Therefore, timely identification and repair of such early defects is crucial for improving construction quality. This paper proposes a method for non-destructive detection of honeycomb defects in concrete using infrared thermography (IR) during the hydration stage. By analyzing the temperature differences between defect and non-defect areas based on the temperature distribution generated during hydration, defects can be detected. Furthermore, the study uses the COMSOL finite element model to explore the relationship between defect size, ambient temperature, formwork thickness, and thermal contrast. The results show that IR technology can effectively and reliably detect honeycomb defects, especially during the hydration phase. As a convenient and feasible non-destructive testing method, IR technology has significant potential for application and development in concrete defect detection.