Condition assessment of bridge elements using field tests

The basis for the condition assessment of bridge elements using Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) methods is presented. In bridge inspection with NDE methods, assessments are the percent of total inspected area interpreted as damaged. The condition assessment of a bridge element by point application of NDE methods is function of how the method is applied, how the physical quantity the method is using correlates with damage, and how the individual point applications are interpreted. An inspection method is a reliable indicator of damage if it succeeds in correctly identifying damage in bridge elements. The assessment of an inspected bridge element and reliability of this assessment is investigated by considering application of tests, correlation of the physical quantity with damage, and interpretation of tests.