1.1 This test method covers several ground penetrating radar (GPR) evaluation procedures that can be used to evaluate the condition of concrete bridge decks overlaid with asphaltic concrete wearing surfaces. These procedures can also be used for bridge decks overlaid with portland cement concrete and for bridge decks without an overlay. Specifically, this test method predicts the presence or absence of concrete or rebar deterioration at or above the level of the top layer of reinforcing bar.

1.2 Deterioration in concrete bridge decks is manifested by the corrosion of embedded reinforcement or the decomposition of concrete, or both. The most serious form of deterioration is that which is caused by corrosion of embedded reinforcement. Corrosion may be initiated by deicing salts, used for snow and ice control in the winter months, penetrating the concrete. In arid climates, the corrosion can be initiated by chloride ions contained in the mix ingredients. Deterioration may also be initiated by the intrusion of water and aggravated by subsequent freeze/thaw cycles, causing damage to the concrete and subsequent debonding of the reinforcing steel with the surrounding compromised concrete.

1.3 This test method may not be suitable for evaluating bridges with delaminations that are localized over the diameter of the reinforcement, or for those bridges that have cathodic protection (coke breeze as cathode) installed on the bridge or for which a conductive aggregate has been used in the asphalt (that is, blast furnace slag). This is because metals are perfect reflectors of electromagnetic waves, since the wave impedances for metals are zero.

1.4 Since a precision estimate for this standard has not been developed, the test method is to be used for research and informational purposes only. Therefore, this standard should not be used for acceptance or rejection of a material for purchasing purposes.

1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.6 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes which provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the standard.

1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 5.

1.8 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.