This project developed a new approach based on constitutive models and Lamb wave technique that could be used to predict the remaining service life of concrete bridge structures. The prediction is based on the stress-strain response of materials in concrete bridge structures experiencing deterioration due to highway traffic and environmental conditions. The project was focused on establishing the correlation between the Lamb wave data and the disturbance (damage) from the stress-strain, and on the design and integration of the NDT system with a constitutive model. Concrete beams and flat specimens were cast for evaluating stress-strain and Lamb wave propagation characteristics. Tests were performed on specimens under normal conditions and in salt solutions, and data on tension and compression and lamb wave characteristics were collected at various time intervals. A methodology was developed to evaluate stress-strain location, elastic modulii and peak stress (strength) of the material at a given stage during the life of the structure. Results for salt-treated specimens were compared with those for untreated specimens and correlation between mechanical and Lamb wave test data was investigated. It was concluded that the integration of nondestructive testing with constitutive models can form the basis to develop new equipment using Lamb wave technique.  The final report is available from the National Technical Information Service (NTIS # PB2002-101163).

The final report for this IDEA project can be found at:
https://onlinepubs.trb.org/onlinepubs/archive/studies/idea/finalreports/highway/NCHRP054_Final_Report.pdf