Wave-Based NDT Methods (edX)

In this course, students will learn about wave-based NDT methods, including ultrasonic inspection, acoustic emission, resonant frequency testing, and electromechanical impedance testing. The topics include piezoelectric effect, basic principles of various wave-based NDT methods, and their associated data acquisition.

The course also includes case studies so students can apply the knowledge to field inspection or monitoring of materials and structures.

This course is part of the Materials Engineering for Intelligent Infrastructure MicroMasters program.

What you'll learn

- Explain the basic principles of various wave-based NDT techniques

- Interpret the obtained data of wave-based NDT methods

- Evaluate the material and structure conditions and integrity based on wave-based NDT methods

- Report the NDT testing results in both oral and written format following the provided guidelines

Syllabus

Week 1:

Introduction to Piezoelectricity

Fundamentals of Piezoelectricity

Piezoelectric Characterization

Piezoelectric Transducer

Types of Piezoelectric Transducers

Example Piezoelectric Transducer Fabrication

Week 2:

Basic Principles of Ultrasound

Measurement Techniques of Ultrasonic Inspection

Couplant Gel

Signal Processing & Visualization

Ultrasonic NDT in Concrete Testing

Week 3:

Acoustic Emission Basic Principle

AE Inspection Equipment

AE Signal Features

AE Inspection Applications

Week 4:

Resonant Frequency Testing Principle

RF Inspection Equipment

Case Studies

Week 5:

Electromechanical Impedance (EMI) Testing Methods

EMI Spectrum

EMI Data Processing

EMI Applications

EMI Case Study