Dynamic measurements as support to the analysis and condition assessment of structures

Abstract

Between the advantages of using of dynamic measurements it can be highlighted their applications in the analysis and condition assessment of existing structures, as well as the calibration of numerical models for the representation of their response to different actions and to the evaluation of their safety. The identification of structural dynamic characteristics may help in the damage assessment and in the continuous monitoring of the eventual evolution of the structural deterioration. The present chapter summarizes the work done over the last years by a research group of the University of Aveiro in the application of dynamic identification in the characterization of existing structures, in the evaluation of the evolution of the damage, and in the calibration of numerical models.