This CAREER award investigates an integrated approach to research and education in non-destructive evaluation (NDE) of civil infrastructure systems. Much of the civil infrastructure in the United States is deteriorating due to age, inadequate investment in proper maintenance, and increased system demand. NDE can provide fast and reliable assessment techniques that are needed to handle the large volume of deteriorating civil systems, particularly bridges, that pose serious threats to safety if they fail. The focus of this research is to develop a NDE technique based on stress wave principles to efficiently and accurately assess the integrity of micropile foundations that are used to support existing foundations of aging bridges and buildings during rehabilitation. This work consists of 1) laboratory investigations on micropile foundations using a combination of longitudinal and flexural wave methods with surface and embedded sensors, 2) analytical studies related to signal processing and numerical simulation, and 3) field investigations of in situ micropiles. Although NDE is well established and confirmed by extensive site experience for drilled shafts and driven concrete piles, the technique is uncertain for slender piles with high length-to-diameter ratios and piles with multiple changes in cross-sectional dimensions. Thus, this work will study the fundamental relationship between slender micropile foundations and the surrounding soil, the effect of multiple changes in cross-sectional area on wave propagation and the received signals, and the dispersive effects of the concrete used for micropile construction. An education plan is integrated with the proposed research to incorporate infrastructure assessment, rehabilitation, and monitoring technologies into the civil engineering curriculum at the University of South Carolina. Education is critically needed in the areas of infrastructure failure, inspection, and rehabilitation to give both students and the engineering workforce the skills to revitalize and preserve our nation's civil infrastructure. Furthermore, the plan proposes to integrate NDE research methodology into course work, provide increased research opportunities for undergraduates, and increase participation of traditionally under-represented groups
