Modern experimental method for assessment of metallic structures joined by rivets from architectural heritage elements

Abstract

Nondestructive testing techniques in the cultural heritage field has advantages in the analysis of monumental objects (i.e., undisturbed, non-contact and fast inspection of large surfaces). Architectural heritage, i.e., antique buildings and small architecture are affected by many degradation processes of varied course, dependent on characteristics of used materials as well as the object’s age, working conditions and random natural or anthropic events. Structures containing metallic parts from architectural heritage shall receive structural health monitoring analysis for preservation. Thus, general engineering problems can be addressed by electromagnetic nondestructive testing of metallic structures jointed by rivets, using a new type of sensor array, in order to emphasize the eventually discontinuities which favors the corrosion acceleration.