Infiltration detection in internal areas of buildings using infrared thermography: case study

Abstract Infrared thermography is a non-destructive inspection technique with increasing use in construction works. Its specific application in detecting infiltrations is still in development. The main objective of this study is to verify the applicability of infrared thermography in the detection of humidity in internal areas that present this pathological manifestation or minimal signs related to this problem. Internal inspections were carried out in case studies located in areas vulnerable areas to infiltration. The study was conducted passively during the rainy season. The results show that detection is possible during the day, without difficulties, where the areas affected by the infiltration present lower temperatures than the areas without humidity. The researchers observed that the larger the temperature difference, the greater the clarity of the thermal imaging. However, the coating of the inspected surfaces may interrupt the formation of the thermal contrasts, reducing the quality of the results. Infrared thermography is a useful tool for detecting non-visible or early-stage infiltrations because it provides location and affected area information, but certain factors must be considered for effective inspection as the external environmental conditions of the study site, camera specifications and infiltration characteristics.