Corroscan Capacitance 2D Imaging

Category: Characterization > Inspection > Others
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Capacitive sensor-based system designed for non-destructive evaluation of building surfaces. This sensor utilizes Finite Element Analysis (FEA) simulations to optimize the sensor head configuration, enabling real-time 2D subsurface imaging. Both hardware and software components are custom-built to support this capability. Laboratory tests validate the sensor's effectiveness in generating 2D images, revealing the subsurface structure beneath materials like wood and concrete. The system employs a co-planar capacitor configuration with AC voltage, demonstrating its capacity to detect corrosion under paint (CUP) even in underwater conditions.

Benefits

Has a non-invasive nature, requiring only single-sided access for inspections. The co-planar copper electrodes, fabricated through standard printed circuit board (PCB) techniques, simplify the design. The technology proves applicable to materials with varying conductivity, offering flexibility. The imaging technique displays clear detection of defects, as demonstrated by baseline measurements on defect-bearing metal surfaces covered by insulating layers. The spatial resolution of defect imaging is influenced by the stand-off distance between the probe and the surface, emphasizing adaptability.

Limitations

While effective on insulating materials, challenges arise when applying the technology to conductive surfaces covered by insulators, such as corrosion under paint (CUP) scenarios. The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) decreases with smaller capacitance scanners when increasing the distance from the surface, suggesting considerations for optimal scanner head selection based on paint thickness. The contrast resolution may decrease with larger stand-off distances, impacting image quality. Careful attention to insulation thickness is crucial for achieving desired image contrast in practical applications.

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