Non-Destructive Testing Using Rebound Hammer for Retrofitting of Concrete Structures

The integrity and safety of aging concrete infrastructure have become paramount due to environmental degradation, overloading, and time-dependent deterioration. This paper explores the application of the rebound hammer test—a prevalent non-destructive testing (NDT) method—to evaluate the surface hardness and estimate the compressive strength of in-situ concrete in the context of retrofitting. Through controlled testing on aged buildings, correlation with core tests, and consideration of influential factors such as carbonation and surface conditions, this study evaluates the effectiveness, precision, and limitations of the rebound hammer method. The discussion also extends to optimization strategies for test application in retrofitting workflows, emphasizing its role as a screening tool and its integration with other NDT techniques. The findings reinforce the rebound hammer test's relevance for sustainable infrastructure rehabilitation and propose future research directions to enhance reliability and applicability.