Thermographic Non-destructive Testing: Advances and Applications

Dear Colleagues,

The Special Issue on "Thermographic Nondestructive Testing: Advances and Applications" is dedicated to the most recent developments and practical applications of thermographic techniques in non-destructive testing (NDT). Thermographic NDT employs infrared imaging to detect and analyse the thermal properties of materials and structures, thereby providing a powerful tool for identifying, characterising and quantifying defects and ensuring quality without causing damage.

Recent advancements in thermographic NDT have led to significant improvements in the accuracy, efficiency, and versatility of these methods. This issue covers a range of key topics, including innovations in infrared camera technology, enhanced data processing algorithms, and novel applications across various industries such as aerospace, civil engineering, and manufacturing.

A significant highlight is the application of thermographic NDT in additive manufacturing (AM). As additive manufacturing (AM) techniques, such as 3D printing, become increasingly prevalent, ensuring the integrity of printed components is crucial. Thermographic non-destructive testing (NDT) is particularly effective in detecting defects such as porosity, cracks, and lack of fusion in AM parts. This issue explores how integrating thermographic methods with AM processes can lead to real-time monitoring and improved quality control, on-line and off-line, reducing the presence of defects and improving the material's reliability.

Furthermore, the issue emphasizes the integration of thermographic NDT with complementary NDT methods such as ultrasonic testing, radiography, and eddy current testing. By combining these techniques, a more comprehensive assessment of material integrity can be achieved, leveraging the strengths of each method to enhance defect detection and characterisation.

The issue also considers the quantitative analysis of thermographic data, which is of great importance for the accurate characterisation of defects. The development of advanced data processing algorithms and computational techniques, including machine learning and artificial intelligence, is facilitating the enhancement of the quantitative analysis capabilities of thermographic non-destructive testing (NDT). These advancements permit more precise measurements of defect size, depth, and shape, by providing detailed insights into material integrity.

Case studies demonstrate the successful application of thermographic NDT in real-world scenarios, showcasing its effectiveness in detecting subsurface defects, delamination, and other critical issues.

In conclusion, this issue aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the state of the art in thermographic NDT, emphasising the growing importance of this technique as a quantitative approach in maintaining safety, reliability, and efficiency in industrial applications.

Dr. Ester D’Accardi
Dr. Rosa De Finis
Prof. Dr. Umberto Galietti
Guest Editors

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• thermographic nondestructive testing
• infrared imaging
• additive manufacturing defects
• quantitative data analysis
• complementary NDT methods