Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) is now playing an increasing role in the modern global economy, in security-sensitive industries, for instance. The complexity of the inspection task and either large or limited lot runs now require more operator-assisted or fully automated signal processing. This book deals with both fields of expertise: NDE and signal processing. On the signal processing side, in the particular context of NDE applications, the following topics are discussed: sensor fusion, signal knowledge representation, artificial intelligence, fuzzy logic, computer vision, integration of numeric and non-numeric informations, parallel decomposition, noise processing and calibration of sensor devices as well as reliability of detection. Some hardware considerations are introduced as well, to discuss platforms on which processing is done. On the NDE side, applications include advances in holographic inteferometry, microwave resonance or shearography and also on more traditional NDE techniques such as ultrasonics, infrared techniques, X-ray, computed tomography and Eddy currents. Inverse problems are also discussed. This book is suitable for those who already have some experience in one or both fields (signal processing and/or NDE).

This publication presents an up to date coverage of infrared thermography applied in the context of improved industrial activity and quality through automated inspection and control. It puts together concise and complete information on thermal non-destructive evaluation (NDE), a method for testing without damage, not yet available in an integrated, stand-alone format. All concepts discussed are explained in full and many industrial applications of the covered subjects are presented. Although the book is complete by itself extensive references to relevant research papers are given for further reading. Nondestructive Evaluation of Materials by Infrared Thermography is intended for a wide audience. It will help industrial engineers to implement nondestructive evaluation methods on the production line and enlarge their knowledge of industrial inspection techniques. It can also be used as a teaching aid at universities and colleges, especially in materials engineering curricula. Finally research centres will find it valuable as a reference book about thermal NDE.