Acoustic emission-driven fractal analysis for damage warning in FRP-strengthened corroded RC beams

This study introduces a novel approach that integrates Acoustic Emission monitoring with fractal analysis to assess and predict damage progression in FRP-strengthened reinforced concrete beams subjected to corrosion-induced deterioration. By combining AE signals with fractal measures, specifically the correlation dimension, the research provides an effective tool for tracking internal damage evolution and offering early-warning indicators for structural health. The developed damage model identifies three distinct stages of damage: initial damage, damage evolution, and sustained growth. The study reveals that corrosion accelerates both the accumulation and rate of damage, with AE ring counts significantly increasing in moderately to severely corroded beams, indicating heightened crack activity and reduced structural capacity. The correlation dimension shows a strong relationship with the degree of damage, with higher values corresponding to more disordered internal damage. The correlation dimension evolves from an initial increase to a decrease as damage progresses, marking the transition from early to advanced degradation. These findings highlight that corrosion not only accelerates damage but also lowers the detection threshold for significant structural damage.