1Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Ropar, Rupnagar, Punjab
2Centre for Sensors, Instrumentation and Cyber-Physical Systems Engineering (SeNSE), Indian Institute of Technology Delhi
Early prediction of rock failure remains one of the key challenges in rock mechanics and geotechnical engineering. Conventional destructive methods often compromise specimen integrity and limit their applicability for in-situ monitoring. In recent years, non-invasive infrared thermography (IRT) has emerged as a promising technique for capturing spatio-temporal temperature variations associated with microcracking and energy dissipation in rocks. This study reviews the theoretical background, experimental evidence, and practical feasibility of infrared thermography as a diagnostic tool for anticipating failure in rock materials. A framework is proposed for integrating IRT into laboratory testing and field monitoring, with emphasis on correlating thermal precursors with mechanical damage evolution. The approach holds potential for enhancing safety in underground construction, mining, and slope stability management, while contributing to the development of real-time monitoring systems.
Infrared Thermography, Rock hazard, Early prediction, Microcracking
