Detection of Cracks and Potholes in Roads using Infrared Thermography

Abstract

Many remote sensing techniques can be used to identify the cracks/voids on the road surfaces. The given research focuses on applying infrared thermography (IRT). IRT technology can detect features based on the different thermal signature. This method would be an excellent tool for detecting the fracture/cracks. It is because of the reason that the naturally occurring water (rain, snowmelt, etc.) seeps into fractures/cracks. The water has different heat capacity than the material of road surface, and will not undergo cooling or heating as fast as roads surface, hence develop a qualitative thermal signature. This thermal image can be captured using IRT. Also, if the crack is in-depth and invisible from the surface may also be detected using IRT. One of the most common reason for the road damages in high-north is the seepage of water, followed by the freezing/thawing cycle. Cracks have various topographical features and can be categorised based on their shape, depth, and propagation rate. One of the examples of such crack is referred to as a ‘crocodile crack’. If left untreated, the ‘crocodile crack’ turns into even greater damage, such as potholes. Maintenance and repair cost of potholes is far larger than repairing the crack. Hence preemptive detection is essential for a cost-effective and an efficient solution.