Non-Destructive Ultrasonic Evaluation of Asphalt Concrete Waterproofing in Hydraulic Structures: Experimental and Numerical Study

Some hydraulic structures use a multi-layer asphalt concrete coating to ensure waterproofing. Over time, defects may appear in this coating due to ageing of the materials or environmental conditions. In order to prevent further degradation phenomena that could eventually compromise the stability of the structure, we aim to develop a non-destructive monitoring system based on mechanical waves propagation for early detection of such defects. A first step of this study consists in characterizing the presence of defects in terms of measurable mechanical parameters. To this end, six coating samples taken from both healthy and degraded areas of a real embankment dam are considered. They are analysed using a ultrasound acquisition system. The initial results are promising, showing a difference in dynamic modulus between healthy and degraded areas.