Non-destructive evaluation of the interface in reinforced concrete using phase measurement interferometry

Studying the behavior of steel and concrete as a composite is of fundamental importance to the understanding of the cracking of reinforced concrete structures. In this article, a technique leading toward the development of a constitutive model for the interaction of steel and concrete is described. Experiments are based on pull-out specimens, where the shear stress and the two displacement components at the interface are measured. Phase Measurement Interferometry is used for accurate surface displacement measurement, and crack growth detection. The normal stress is then deduced using the measured crack length and crack opening displacements, along with a fracture mechanics based numerical simulation.