Nondestructive Evaluation Methods for Evaluating Masonry Construction

Description:

Conservation of existing masonry structures begins with having a well-founded understanding of as-built construction and existing conditions. Many different methods are available for diagnosing conditions of brick and stone masonry, ranging from use of simple hand tools to specialized approaches requiring expensive equipment and years of experience. Nondestructive evaluation (NDE) techniques offer alternatives to destructive probe openings for evaluating subsurface hidden conditions without damage to existing materials. We will discuss general applications of several methodologies and the unique challenges of applying NDE to evaluation of masonry materials. In situ test methods will also be presented and, while not truly nondestructive, these techniques allow gathering essential information on conditions and material properties with minor disruption to existing fabric.

MICHAEL SCHULLER P.E. FTMS FAPT

Michael Schuller is president of Atkinson-Noland & Associates, a consulting engineering firm specializing in evaluation and repair of existing structures. He has 30 years’ experience with masonry engineering including special expertise with nondestructive evaluation and repair procedures. Over the years he has written over 100 publications on concrete and masonry including a new book titled “Assessment and Retrofit of Masonry Structures.” He taught masonry structural design at the University of Colorado from 1999 through 2016.