Laboratory and field studies on the use of acoustic emission for masonry bridges

Acoustic emission (AE) monitoring has the unique ability to record crack propagation and the response of structures to live loading; however, its use for masonry is currently very limited. AE technique was applied to a series of small-scale laboratory specimens under compression and shear to develop deeper understanding of the stages of fracture development process and signal characteristics under quasi-static and long-term fatigue loading. Field monitoring was subsequently carried out on a brick masonry arch bridge to identify its response to traffic loading, structural condition and efficacy of strengthening works with the help of laboratory test results.

► AE technique is applied to brickwork small-scale specimens and to an arch bridge. ► Crack development process is detected well before damage becomes visible. ► Acoustic wave properties are related to material characteristics and failure modes. ► Failure bridge mechanisms are identified under controlled load and traffic. ► Effectiveness of strengthening is proven.