Compton back scatter imaging for mild steel rebar detection and depth characterization embedded in concrete

A novel non-destructive Compton scattering technique is described to ensure the feasibility, reliability and applicability of detecting the reinforcing steel bar in concrete. The indigenously developed prototype system presented in this paper is capable of detecting the reinforcement of varied diameters embedded in the concrete and as well as up to 60 mm depth, with the aid of Caesium-137(137Cs) radioactive source and a high resolution HPGe detector. The technique could also detect the inhomogeneities present in the test specimen by interpreting the material density variation caused due to the count rate. The experimental results are correlated using established techniques such as radiography and rebar locators. The results obtained from its application to locate the rebars are quite promising and also been successfully used for reinforcement mapping. This method can be applied, especially when the intrusion is located underneath the cover of the concrete or considerably at larger depths and where two sided access is restricted.