A novel machine learning-based approach to thermal integrity profiling of concrete pile foundations
Author(s)
Sanchez Fernandez, Javier
Ruiz Lopez, Agustin
Taborda, David
Type
Journal Article
Abstract
Thermal Integrity Profiling (TIP) is a non-destructive testing technique which takes advantage of the concrete heat of hydration (HoH) to detect inclusions during the casting process. This method is becoming more popular due to its ease of application, as it can be used to predict defects in most concrete foundation structures requiring only the monitoring of temperatures. Despite its advantages, challenges remain with regard to data interpretation and analysis, as temperature is only known at discrete points within a given cross-section. This study introduces a novel method for the interpretation of TIP readings using neural networks. Training data is obtained through numerical FE simulation spanning an extensive range of soil, concrete and geometrical parameters. The developed algorithm first classifies concrete piles, establishing the presence or absence of defects. This is followed by a regression algorithm that predicts the defect size and its location within the cross-section. Additionally, the regression model provides reliable estimates for the reinforcement cage misalignment and concrete hydration parameters. To make these predictions, the proposed methodology only requires temperature data in the form standard in TIP, and so it can be seamlessly incorporated within the TIP workflows. This work demonstrates the applicability and robustness of machine learning algorithms in enhancing non-destructive TIP testing of concrete foundations, thereby improving the safety and efficiency of civil engineering projects.
Date Issued
2025-06-30
Date Acceptance
2025-06-04
Citation
Data-Centric Engineering, 2025, 6
ISSN
2632-6736
Publisher
Cambridge University Press
Journal / Book Title
Data-Centric Engineering
Volume
6
Copyright Statement
© The Author(s), 2025. Published by Cambridge University Press. This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial licence (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0), which permits non-commercial re-use, distribution, and repro- duction in any medium, provided the original article is properly cited. The written permission of Cambridge University Press must be obtained prior to any commercial use.
License URL
Identifier
10.1017/dce.2025.10013
Subjects
concrete piles
defect detection
finite element
machine learning
thermal integrity profiling
Publication Status
Published
Article Number
ARTN e33
Date Publish Online
2025-06-30