Optical techniques applied to the study of building materials and to the inspection of civil structures

Where the evaluation of the mechanical properties and behaviour of building materials is concerned, there is still not a universally accepted solution for making such measurements. Optical diagnostic techniques are particularly attractive for a non-destructive evaluation of a surface's state and the detection of incipient damage. Non-contact, high precision measurements and full-field of observation are features that can bring enormous advantages in experimental tests. [Continues.]