Nondestructive Tests of Thickness Measurements for Concrete Pavements: Tests Really Work

Magnetic pulse induction can be used to determine the thickness of concrete pavement in a nondestructive manner. This induction provides the same level of accuracy and can save time and money for state agencies when compared with coring the pavement for thickness determination. The MIT-SCAN-T2 is a commercially available device that uses magnetic pulse induction to measure pavement thickness. The technology and operation of this device are described. Field experience from various states is provided. The accuracy and the repeatability, when compared with measuring core lengths, are good on the basis of data collected to date. The advantages of this nondestructive testing are presented. A specification developed by the Iowa Department of Transportation is included. The paper also includes a discussion of other issues that may be raised when this technique is used or there is ongoing work related to implementation.