Infrared Thermography Applied to Inspection of Wood Damages

The wood structures are prone to biological attacks, such as fungi and wood insects. In addition, the wooden structures also suffer the natural degradation of ageing. A periodic plan of inspections and maintenance is therefore mandatory and crucial. However, most of the methods of inspection and evaluation are intrusive, lengthy and expensive. Several are even destructive and dangerous. Safer and environmentally friendly methods are needed. As a non-destructive, non-contact and expedite technique, Infrared Thermography (IRT) can be a highly useful tool for wood inspection. This experimental study intends to evaluate the potential of IRT applied to the wood damages inspection. For this goal, three holes were induced in a wood sample. The sample was analyzed using IRT in active mode. The results show the efficiency of this technology to identify defects or gaps in wooden parts. However, there is a need for further studies to endorse the practicality and effectiveness of the technique.