The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways(MORT&H)in India has deployed Mobile Inspection Vans(MIVs)to enhance the quality inspection of National Highways.These MIVs are equipped with advanced non-destructive testing(NDT)technologies,enabling real-time assessment of road conditions and materials.This initiative aims to improve the maintenance and safety standards of the nation's highway infrastructure.

Non-DestructiveTesting(NDT)technology is increasingly used in evaluating road furniture such as road markings,road paintings,road signs,and Pavement Quality Index(PQI).Here's how NDT is applied in these areas:

1.Road Markings and Paintings

NDT ensures the durability and retro reflectivity of road markings,critical for nighttime visibility and safety.

Retro reflectivity Measurement:Portable retro reflectometers assess the reflectivity of road markings to ensure compliance with standards.

Paint Thickness:Ultrasonic devices can measure the thickness of paint layers to check for uniformity and durability.

Adhesion Testing:Pull-off tests using NDT equipment determine the adhesion strength of road paint to the surface.

2.Road Signs

Reflectivity Testing:Retro reflectometers are also used to measure the reflectivity of road signs,especially vital for nighttime visibility.

Structural Integrity:Ultrasonic flaw detectors or other NDT tools evaluate the integrity of signposts for cracks or corrosion without dismantling them.

Coating Thickness:Magnetic or eddy current-based instruments measure the coating thickness on metal signs to ensure rust prevention.

3.Pavement Quality Index(PQI)

The PQl assesses the overall quality and functionality of the pavement.NDT tools facilitate this by providing non-invasive evaluations:

GPR(Ground Penetrating Radar):Used to detect subsurface conditions,voids,or delamination under road markings.

Thermal Imaging:Identifies defects like uneven curing of road surfaces or improperly applied markings.

Laser Scanning:Measures surface texture and smoothness to contribute to the PQI calculation.

Portable Pavement Quality Indicators:Devices like PQI 380 use electromagnetic properties to measure density and compaction without damaging the pavement.

4.General Advantages of NDT in Road Furniture

Real-time results without traffic disruption.

Cost-effective and time-saving compared to traditional destructive methods.

High accuracy and repeatability.

Helps in preventive maintenance,reducing long-term costs.

These technologies ensure road furniture maintains optimal performance,contributing to road safety and compliance with international standards