Innovative uses of thermal imaging in civil engineering

Thermal imaging captures information in the infrared spectrum of light invisible to people, thus it can provide valuable extra information. Innovative use of thermal imaging technology can therefore play an important role in many civil engineering applications. This paper provides insight into thermal imaging technology and its uses in civil engineering. A field example of early leak detection in an earth embankment using thermal imaging technology is presented. With ever-improving thermal imaging technology and decreasing cost of thermal imaging cameras, many future uses of thermal imaging in civil engineering are envisaged – from pipeline leak detection to structural integrity inspections, energy efficiency surveys and pollution monitoring. The small size of the equipment means it can also be carried by drones, offering access to remote or otherwise inaccessible areas.