Analytical apparatus and analytical method

Abstract

To provide an analyzer and an analysis method for allowing appropriate analysis of the state of corrosion of steel material in concrete.SOLUTION: An analyzer 10 comprises: a transmitter 12 that is provided so that it can transmit an electromagnetic wave with a frequency of 0.1-100 GHz toward an object 1; a diaphragm 14 that regulates a travel path of the electromagnetic wave transmitted from the transmitter 12; and a plurality of first detectors 16a, 16b that can detect the intensity of the electromagnetic wave. The plurality of first detectors 16a, 16b are arranged so that the detectors can receive the electromagnetic waves reflected on the object 1 at the angles of reflection different from each other.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an analysis apparatus and an analysis method for acquiring information for analyzing an object using electromagnetic waves.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, techniques for analyzing the deterioration state of concrete have been proposed. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a method for evaluating the degree of deterioration of concrete using terahertz waves.

[0003] In the method disclosed in Patent Document 1, a pair of boring holes are formed in concrete, and the absorbance is calculated from the transmitted terahertz waves when the terahertz waves are irradiated from one boring hole toward the other boring hole. Then, the degree of deterioration of the concrete is evaluated by comparing the calculated absorbance with the absorbance of concrete having the same composition as the concrete to be evaluated and a known degree of deterioration.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In concrete structures such as bridges and buildings, steel materials are provided inside the concrete. In such concrete structures, it is conceivable to use the method disclosed in Patent Document 1 to evaluate the corrosion state of the steel materials in the concrete.

[0006] However, high-frequency electromagnetic waves (for example, frequencies exceeding 0.1 THz) can only penetrate concrete to a thickness of a few millimeters. Therefore, when the distance from the concrete surface to the steel surface is large (for example, 5 mm or more), the above-mentioned method using high-frequency electromagnetic waves cannot adequately evaluate the deterioration state of the concrete structure.

[0007] Therefore, it is conceivable to use electromagnetic waves with frequencies below 0.1 THz, which have a longer transmission distance through concrete. Specifically, it is conceivable to evaluate the corrosion state of steel materials within concrete by detecting the absorbance when electromagnetic waves with frequencies below 0.1 THz are irradiated onto a concrete structure.

[0008] However, when electromagnetic waves with frequencies below 0.1 THz are irradiated from the concrete surface, scattering, reflection, and absorption of the electromagnetic waves occur due to moisture, voids, aggregates, etc., inside the concrete. These become noise in the detection results, making it impossible to properly evaluate the corrosion state of the steel.

[0009] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide an analytical apparatus and analytical method that enable the proper analysis of the corrosion state of steel materials within concrete. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] (1) The analytical apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention is A transmitter equipped to emit electromagnetic waves with a frequency of 0.1 to 100 GHz toward an object, A throttle that restricts the propagation path of the electromagnetic wave emitted from the transmitter, It comprises multiple first detectors capable of detecting the intensity of electromagnetic waves, The plurality of first detectors are arranged to receive the electromagnetic waves that have been emitted from the transmitter, passed through the aperture, and then reflected from the object at different reflection angles.

[0011] (2) The analytical apparatus described in (1) above, A support base for supporting the aforementioned object, The system may further include an adjustment unit for adjusting the positional relationship between the object supported on the support base, the transmitter, and the plurality of first detectors.

[0012] (3) The analytical apparatus described in (1) above, The system may further include a second detector capable of detecting the intensity of the electromagnetic waves that have passed through the object.

[0013] (4) The analytical apparatus described in (1) above, A third detector may be further provided to detect the intensity of the electromagnetic wave before it reaches the aperture.

[0014] (5) The analytical apparatus described in (1) above, A mirror that reflects a portion of the electromagnetic waves before they reach the aperture, The system may further include a third detection unit for detecting the intensity of the electromagnetic waves reflected by the mirror.

[0015] (6) The analytical apparatus described in (1) above, The system may further include a lens that reduces the divergence angle of the electromagnetic waves.

[0016] (7) An analytical method relating to one embodiment of the present invention is By emitting electromagnetic waves with a frequency of 0.1 to 100 GHz toward the target object, The path of the transmitted electromagnetic wave is restricted and irradiated onto the target object, After transmitting the electromagnetic waves toward the object, the intensity of the electromagnetic waves from the object is detected by a plurality of first detectors. When detecting the intensity of the electromagnetic waves, the plurality of first detectors are arranged to receive the electromagnetic waves reflected from the object at different reflection angles. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] According to the present invention, it becomes possible to appropriately analyze the corrosion state of steel materials within concrete. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0018] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view showing an analyzer according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view showing the analyzer with the support base rotated. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a view showing another example of the analyzer. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a view showing another example of the analyzer. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a view showing another example of the analyzer. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a view showing another example of the analyzer. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a view showing another example of the analyzer. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a view showing another example of the analyzer. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a view showing another example of the analyzer. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a view showing another example of the analyzer. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a view showing another example of the analyzer.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0019] (Study by the present inventors) The present inventors attempted to analyze the corrosion state of steel materials in concrete by irradiating an object to be evaluated (hereinafter referred to as an object) in which steel materials are provided in concrete with electromagnetic waves having a frequency of 0.1 to 100 GHz. Specifically, electromagnetic waves having the above frequency were irradiated onto the surface of the object, and the intensity of the electromagnetic waves whose traveling direction changed in the object was detected by a detector, thereby attempting to analyze the corrosion state of the steel materials in the object. In this specification, electromagnetic waves having a frequency of 0.1 to 100 GHz are also referred to as gigahertz waves.

[0020] However, when electromagnetic waves with frequencies below 100 GHz (0.1 THz) are irradiated onto an object, as described above, scattering, reflection, and absorption of electromagnetic waves (hereinafter referred to as "scattering, etc.") occur inside the concrete (between the concrete surface and the steel surface). Therefore, the intensity of electromagnetic waves detected by the detector includes not only the intensity of electromagnetic waves scattered, etc., at the surface of the steel, but also the intensity of electromagnetic waves scattered, etc., at other parts of the material. For this reason, simply detecting the intensity of electromagnetic waves from the object does not allow for an appropriate analysis of the corrosion state of the steel.

[0021] Therefore, the inventors further investigated methods for detecting electromagnetic waves. In the course of their investigations, the inventors noticed that when steel corrodes and rust forms on its surface, the surface roughness of the steel deteriorates.

[0022] When steel corrosion is not advanced and the surface roughness of the steel is good, the anisotropy of the intensity of electromagnetic waves scattered on the surface of the steel becomes high depending on the detection direction. In this case, when the intensity of electromagnetic waves is detected by multiple detectors set up so that their receiving angles (reflection angles of the detected electromagnetic waves: receiving angles) are different from each other, the difference in the intensity of electromagnetic waves detected by each detector tends to be large.

[0023] On the other hand, when corrosion of steel materials progresses and the surface roughness of the steel material deteriorates, electromagnetic waves incident on the surface of the steel material become more easily scattered. As a result, the anisotropy of the intensity of electromagnetic waves scattered on the surface of the steel material decreases depending on the detection direction. In this case, when the intensity of electromagnetic waves is detected by multiple detectors set up with different receiving angles, the difference in the intensity of electromagnetic waves detected by each detector becomes smaller.

[0024] As described above, when detecting the intensity of electromagnetic waves using multiple detectors positioned at different receiving angles, the detection results of each detector will vary depending on the corrosion state of the steel material. Therefore, it is considered possible to evaluate the corrosion state of the steel material by comparing the detection results of multiple detectors. It should be noted that, as mentioned above, the detection results of each detector are affected not only by electromagnetic waves scattered on the surface of the steel material, but also by electromagnetic waves scattered in parts of the concrete other than the steel material. However, it is considered possible to evaluate the corrosion state of the steel material by comparing the intensities detected by each detector. For example, if the intensities detected by each detector are equivalent, it can be determined that the corrosion state of the steel material is progressing.

[0025] Based on the above findings, the inventors attempted to evaluate the corrosion state of steel by irradiating an object with gigahertz waves and detecting the intensity of the electromagnetic waves scattered by the object using multiple detectors positioned at different receiving angles. However, it was found that it is sometimes not possible to produce differences in the detection results obtained by the multiple detectors that correspond to the corrosion state of the steel.

[0026] The inventors considered the cause to be as follows: The gigahertz waves emitted from the transmitter diverge before reaching the object, increasing the area of ​​gigahertz wave irradiation on the object. In this case, the intensity of electromagnetic waves detected by each detector includes not only the intensity of electromagnetic waves scattered in the area where the corrosion state is to be evaluated (hereinafter referred to as the evaluation unit), but also the intensity of electromagnetic waves scattered outside the evaluation unit. As a result, it is thought that it becomes impossible to create differences in the detection results detected by multiple detectors according to the corrosion state of the steel material.

[0027] Normally, the intensity of gigahertz waves is low, so it is considered undesirable to place an aperture between the transmitter and the object to limit the amount of gigahertz waves passing through, in order to obtain sufficient information from electromagnetic waves scattered by the object. However, the inventors deliberately placed an aperture between the transmitter and the object in order to limit the irradiation area of ​​gigahertz waves to the evaluation unit. As a result, it was possible to appropriately generate differences in the detection results detected by multiple detectors according to the corrosion state of the steel material.

[0028] This invention was completed based on the above findings. Hereinafter, an analytical apparatus and analytical method according to embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0029] (Configuration of the analytical instrument) Figure 1 is a schematic plan view showing an analytical apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 shows the X and Y directions, which are mutually orthogonal. In this embodiment, the X and Y directions are parallel to the horizontal direction.

[0030] As shown in Figure 1, the analysis device 10 according to this embodiment includes a transmitter 12, an aperture 14, a plurality of first detectors 16a, 16b, a support base 18, and an adjustment unit 20. The object to be analyzed by the analysis device 10 is placed on the support base 18. In this embodiment, the object 1 includes concrete 2 and steel material 3 provided within the concrete 2.

[0031] The transmitter 12 is configured to emit electromagnetic waves (gigahertz waves) having a frequency of 0.1 to 100 GHz toward the object 1. In this embodiment, the transmitter 12 is configured to change the frequency of the emitted electromagnetic waves. In this embodiment, the frequency of the electromagnetic waves irradiated onto the object 1 is preferably 50 GHz or less, more preferably 2 to 40 GHz, and even more preferably 5 to 25 GHz. A known transmitter can be used as the transmitter 12, so a detailed explanation is omitted. In Figure 1, the path of the electromagnetic waves emitted by the transmitter 12 is shown by a dashed line.

[0032] The aperture 14 restricts the propagation path of electromagnetic waves emitted from the transmitter 12. In this embodiment, the aperture 14 has a plate-shaped main body 14a and an absorbing part 14b. The absorbing part 14b is provided on the side of the main body 14a facing the transmitter 12. The aperture 14 has a through hole 14c formed to penetrate the main body 14a and the absorbing part 14b.

[0033] The propagation path of electromagnetic waves emitted from the transmitter 12 is restricted by the through-hole 14c. In this embodiment, the through-hole 14c is formed to have a diameter of, for example, about 10 times the wavelength of the electromagnetic waves emitted from the transmitter 12. In this embodiment, the through-hole 14c is formed to have a diameter of, for example, about 10 to 50 mm. In this embodiment, a portion of the electromagnetic waves emitted from the transmitter 12 passes through the through-hole 14c, and another portion of the electromagnetic waves emitted from the transmitter 12 is absorbed by the absorption section 14b. The absorption section 14b is formed, for example, by applying an electromagnetic wave absorbing material to the main body 14a, or by attaching an electromagnetic wave absorbing sheet to the main body 14a. Various known materials capable of absorbing electromagnetic waves can be used as the material for the absorption section 14b. Although the absorption section 14b is not required, it is preferable to provide the absorption section 14b from the viewpoint of suppressing the influence of electromagnetic waves scattered in the main body 14a on the detection results of the first detectors 16a and 16b.

[0034] Although a detailed explanation is omitted as any known aperture used in optical systems can be used as the aperture 14, the aperture 14 may be configured to allow adjustment of the size of the through-hole 14c (cross-sectional area in a direction perpendicular to the direction of electromagnetic wave propagation). As described above, in this embodiment, the aperture 14 has a through-hole 14c that allows electromagnetic waves emitted from the transmitter 12 to pass through, and its configuration is completely different from that of a lens that refracts electromagnetic waves.

[0035] Each of the multiple first detectors 16a and 16b detects the intensity of electromagnetic waves. In this embodiment, the multiple first detectors 16a and 16b are configured to detect the intensity of electromagnetic waves that have passed through the aperture 14 (through hole 14c) and been scattered by the object 1. In this embodiment, the multiple first detectors 16a and 16b are arranged to receive electromagnetic waves reflected from the object 1 at different reflection angles. That is, the multiple first detectors 16a and 16b are installed so that their receiving angles (reflection angles of the electromagnetic waves to be detected: receiving angles) are different from each other. Note that known detectors capable of detecting the intensity of electromagnetic waves can be used as the first detectors 16a and 16b, so a detailed explanation of the configuration of the first detectors 16a and 16b is omitted. The same applies to the second and third detectors described later.

[0036] In this embodiment, the support base 18 is provided to be movable in the X direction, the Y direction, and in a direction perpendicular to the X and Y directions (in this embodiment, the vertical direction). Furthermore, in this embodiment, the support base 18 is provided to be rotatable about a rotation axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the X and Y directions.

[0037] The adjustment unit 20 is configured to adjust the positional relationship between the object 1, the transmitter 12, and the multiple first detectors 16a, 16b. In this embodiment, the adjustment unit 20 supports the support base 18 so that it can move in the X direction, the Y direction, and directions orthogonal to the X and Y directions. The adjustment unit 20 also supports the support base 18 so that it can rotate. In this embodiment, the user of the analysis device 10 can operate the adjustment unit 20 to move or rotate the support base 18 relative to the transmitter 12 and the first detectors 16a, 16b. This allows the positional relationship between the object 1, the transmitter 12, and the multiple first detectors 16a, 16b to be adjusted. For example, by rotating the support base 18 from the state of the analysis device 10 shown in Figure 1, the orientation of the object 1 relative to the transmitter 12 and the first detectors 16a, 16b can be changed, as shown in Figure 2. Furthermore, although not shown in the diagram, the orientation of the object 1 relative to the transmitter 12 and the first detectors 16a and 16b can also be changed by moving the support base 18 in the X direction, the Y direction, or in a direction perpendicular to both the X and Y directions. The positions of the transmitter 12, the first detector 16a, and the first detector 16b in the direction perpendicular to both the X and Y directions may be equal or different. For example, the positions of the transmitter 12 and the first detector 16a may be equal in the direction perpendicular to both the X and Y directions, while the positions of the transmitter 12 and the first detector 16b may be different.

[0038] (Effects and Benefits) When analyzing the state of the object 1 using the analysis device 10 according to this embodiment, the intensity of electromagnetic waves scattered in the object 1 can be detected by a plurality of first detectors 16a and 16b, which are installed with different receiving angles. In this case, by comparing the detection results of the plurality of first detectors 16a and 16b, it becomes possible to evaluate the corrosion state of the steel material 3 in the concrete 2. In particular, in this embodiment, since electromagnetic waves whose propagation path is restricted by the aperture 14 can be irradiated onto the object 1, the irradiation area of ​​electromagnetic waves in the object 1 can be limited to the part (evaluation part) where the corrosion state is to be evaluated. This makes it possible to suppress the detection of the intensity of electromagnetic waves scattered in parts other than the evaluation part by the first detectors 16a and 16b. As a result, differences corresponding to the corrosion state of the steel material 3 can be appropriately generated in the detection results detected by the plurality of first detectors 16a and 16b. As a result, it becomes possible to appropriately analyze the corrosion state of the steel material 3 in the concrete 2.

[0039] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the adjustment unit 20 can adjust the positional relationship between the object 1, the transmitter 12, and the multiple first detectors 16a and 16b. This makes it possible to analyze the corrosion state of the steel material 3 more appropriately by, for example, checking how the detection results of the first detectors 16a and 16b change according to the above positional relationship.

[0040] In the analytical apparatus 10 and analytical method using the same according to this embodiment, the method of utilizing the detection results (detection intensity of electromagnetic waves) of the multiple first detectors 16a and 16b is not particularly limited. For example, the corrosion state of the steel material 3 may be evaluated by calculating the ratio of the intensities of electromagnetic waves detected by the multiple first detectors 16a and 16b, or the corrosion state of the steel material 3 may be evaluated by calculating the ratio of the intensity of electromagnetic waves detected by the multiple first detectors 16a and 16b (detection intensity) to the intensity of electromagnetic waves emitted from the transmitter 12.

[0041] As described above, if the corrosion of the steel material 3 is not very advanced and the surface roughness of the steel material 3 is good, the anisotropy of the intensity of electromagnetic waves scattered on the surface of the steel material 3 depending on the detection direction will be high. In this case, the difference in the intensity of electromagnetic waves detected by the first detectors 16a and 16b tends to be large. On the other hand, if the corrosion of the steel material 3 is progressing and the surface roughness of the steel material 3 is deteriorating, electromagnetic waves incident on the surface of the steel material 3 will be scattered more easily. In this case, the difference in the intensity of electromagnetic waves detected by the first detectors 16a and 16b tends to be small. Therefore, for example, the smaller the difference in the intensity of electromagnetic waves detected by the first detectors 16a and 16b, the more advanced the corrosion of the steel material can be judged to be.

[0042] Furthermore, if corrosion of the steel material 3 is not progressing, the intensity of electromagnetic waves scattered on the surface of the steel material 3 will be low. Therefore, if the first detectors 16a and 16b do not detect electromagnetic waves reflected from the surface of the steel material 3 (reflected waves), the intensity of electromagnetic waves detected by the first detectors 16a and 16b will decrease significantly. In this case, similar to the case where corrosion of the steel material 3 is progressing and the surface roughness of the steel material 3 is deteriorating, the difference in the intensity of electromagnetic waves detected by the first detectors 16a and 16b will become smaller. In this regard, for example, it is possible to determine whether or not corrosion of the steel material 3 is progressing by calculating the ratio of the intensity of electromagnetic waves detected by the first detectors 16a and 16b (detection intensity) to the intensity of electromagnetic waves emitted from the transmitter 12.

[0043] As described above, in the analysis of the object 1 using the analysis apparatus 10 according to this embodiment, the corrosion state of the steel material 3 can be evaluated by considering the anisotropy of the intensity of electromagnetic waves scattered on the surface of the steel material 3 depending on the detection direction. However, depending on the positional relationship between the first detectors 16a, 16b and the object 1, the intensity of the electromagnetic waves received by one of the first detectors after being reflected from the surface of the steel material 3 may be high. For example, the intensity of the electromagnetic waves detected by one of the first detectors may be about 10 times greater than the intensity of the electromagnetic waves detected by the other first detector. In such cases, it may not be possible to properly evaluate the anisotropy of the intensity of electromagnetic waves scattered on the surface of the steel material 3 depending on the detection direction, so it is preferable to change the receiving angles of the first detectors 16a, 16b and perform the analysis again. The receiving angles of the first detectors 16a, 16b may be adjusted by the adjustment unit 20, or the user may adjust them by changing the orientation of the object 1.

[0044] (modified version) In the above-described embodiment, the positional relationship between the object 1, the transmitter 12, and the multiple first detectors 16a, 16b was adjusted by moving or rotating the support base 18 using the adjustment unit 20. However, the configuration of the adjustment unit is not limited to the above example. For example, the adjustment unit may be configured to adjust the positional relationship between the object 1, the transmitter 12, and the multiple first detectors 16a, 16b by moving the positions of the transmitter 12 and / or the first detectors 16a, 16b relative to the support base 18. Specifically, the adjustment unit may be configured to move the positions of the transmitter 12 and / or the first detectors 16a, 16b relative to the support base 18 in the X direction, the Y direction, and in directions orthogonal to the X and Y directions. Alternatively, for example, the adjustment unit may be configured to move the positions of the transmitter 12 and / or the first detectors 16a, 16b along a circumference centered on the support base 18 when viewed from a direction orthogonal to the X and Y directions. In these cases, it is preferable that the adjustment unit be configured to move the position of the aperture 14 together with the transmitter 12. The same applies to the embodiments described later.

[0045] In the above-described embodiment, the case in which the intensity of electromagnetic waves from the object 1 is detected by two first detectors 16a and 16b was explained. However, the analyzer may have three or more first detectors arranged to detect the intensity of electromagnetic waves reflected at different reflection angles. The same applies to the embodiments described later.

[0046] In the embodiments described above, the case in which the parts of the analyzer 10 are installed so that the X and Y directions are parallel to the horizontal direction was explained, but the installation orientation of the analyzer 10 is not limited to the above example. For example, the parts of the analyzer 10 may be installed so that the X direction is parallel to the vertical direction, or so that the Y direction is parallel to the vertical direction. Also, for example, the parts of the analyzer 10 may be installed so that the X direction and / or Y direction are inclined with respect to the horizontal direction. However, it is preferable to install the parts of the analyzer 10 so that the X and Y directions are parallel to the horizontal direction (i.e., to arrange the parts of the analyzer 10 horizontally) because it offers greater flexibility in the installation of each part. The same applies to the embodiments described later.

[0047] In the above-described embodiment, the first detectors 16a and 16b are arranged to be spaced apart from each other when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the X and Y directions. However, the first detectors 16a and 16b may be arranged to overlap each other when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the X and Y directions, or they may be arranged to be aligned in the X or Y direction. In these cases, for example, the first detectors 16a and 16b are arranged at different positions in a direction perpendicular to the X and Y directions. Also, the transmitter 12 may be arranged to overlap with the first detectors 16a and / or the first detectors 16b when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the X and Y directions, or it may be arranged to be aligned in the X direction.

[0048] In the above-described embodiment, the analysis device 10 is configured to detect the intensity of electromagnetic waves that, after scattering in the object 1, propagate in a direction inclined with respect to the direction of transmission of electromagnetic waves by the transmitter 12 (the Y direction in Figure 1) using a plurality of first detectors 16a and 16b. However, the arrangement of the plurality of first detectors 16a and 16b is not limited to the above example. An example will be given below. Figure 3 shows another example of the analysis device.

[0049] The analysis apparatus 10a shown in Figure 3 includes a half-mirror 22 in addition to the transmitter 12, aperture 14, multiple first detectors 16a, 16b, support base 18, and adjustment unit 20 described in Figure 1. The half-mirror 22 is placed between the aperture 14 and the object 1. A known half-mirror can be used as the half-mirror 22, so a detailed explanation is omitted, but for example, a half-mirror using a silicon substrate can be used.

[0050] In the analysis apparatus 10a according to this embodiment, electromagnetic waves that have passed through the aperture 14 pass through the half mirror 22 and are irradiated onto the object 1. A portion of the electromagnetic waves scattered by the object 1 travels in a direction inclined with respect to the direction of electromagnetic wave transmission by the transmitter 12 and is received by the first detector 16a. Another portion of the electromagnetic waves scattered by the object 1 travels in the opposite direction to the direction of electromagnetic wave transmission by the transmitter 12, is reflected by the half mirror 22, and is received by the first detector 16b.

[0051] In the above embodiment, the case of detecting the intensity of electromagnetic waves scattered by object 1 was described, but transmitted waves that have passed through the object may also be detected. An example will be given below. Figure 4 shows another example of the analytical apparatus.

[0052] The analysis device 10b shown in Figure 4 is further equipped with a second detector 24a compared to the analysis device 10 described in Figure 1. In this embodiment, electromagnetic waves are emitted from the transmitter 12 to an object 1a made of concrete 2. Unlike the object 1 described above, the object 1a does not have steel material 3 (see Figure 1) inside. Therefore, some of the electromagnetic waves irradiated onto the object 1a pass through the object 1a. The second detector 24a is provided to detect the intensity of the electromagnetic waves that have passed through the object 1a (transmitted waves). Also, similar to the analysis device 10 shown in Figure 1, by emitting electromagnetic waves from the transmitter 12 to an object 1 which has steel material 3 inside, the intensity of the electromagnetic waves scattered in the object 1 can be detected by the first detectors 16a and 16b.

[0053] In the analytical apparatus 10b according to this embodiment, the deterioration state of the object 1a (concrete 2) can be evaluated by detecting the intensity of the transmitted wave with the second detector 24a. Although not shown in the figures, for an object 1 including steel material 3 (see Figure 1), the detection result of the second detector 24a obtained by irradiating the portion without steel material 3 with electromagnetic waves so that they penetrate the concrete 2 can be compared with the detection results of the first detectors 16a and 16b obtained by irradiating the object with electromagnetic waves so that they are scattered by the steel material 3. In this case, the corrosion state of the steel material 3 can be evaluated more appropriately by considering the deterioration state of the concrete 2.

[0054] In the analysis apparatus 10b shown in Figure 4, the case in which the intensity of the transmitted wave is detected by one second detector 24a has been described. However, the number of second detectors is not limited to one, and two or more second detectors may be provided. An example will be given below. Figure 5 shows another example of the analysis apparatus.

[0055] The analysis device 10c shown in Figure 5 is equipped with a plurality of second detectors 24a, 24b, and 24c that are capable of detecting the intensity of transmitted waves that have passed through the object 1a. In the example shown in Figure 5, the second detector 24a detects the intensity of electromagnetic waves that have passed through the object 1a and are traveling in the direction of electromagnetic wave transmission by the transmitter 12 (Y direction). The second detectors 24b and 24c detect the intensity of electromagnetic waves that have passed through the object 1a and are traveling in a direction inclined with respect to the direction of electromagnetic wave transmission by the transmitter 12. In this embodiment, the deterioration state of the concrete 2 can be evaluated with even greater accuracy by comparing the detection results of the plurality of second detectors 24a, 24b, and 24c. Furthermore, for an object 1 containing steel material 3 (see Figure 1), the detection results of the second detectors 24a, 24b, and 24c obtained by irradiating the portion without steel material 3 with electromagnetic waves so as to penetrate the concrete 2 can be compared with the detection results of the first detectors 16a and 16b obtained by irradiating the object with electromagnetic waves so as to scatter them with the steel material 3. This allows for a more appropriate understanding of the deterioration state of the concrete 2 and a more accurate evaluation of the corrosion state of the steel material 3.

[0056] In the embodiments described above, the case of measuring the intensity of electromagnetic waves scattered by an object was explained, but the intensity of electromagnetic waves before they are irradiated onto the object may also be measured. An example will be given below. Figure 6 shows another example of the analytical apparatus.

[0057] The analyzer 10d shown in Figure 6 is further equipped with a third detector 26 compared to the analyzer 10 described in Figure 1. In this embodiment, the third detector 26 is attached to the aperture 14 and is configured to detect the intensity of electromagnetic waves before they reach the aperture 14.

[0058] Depending on the operating environment of the analyzer 10d or the characteristics of the transmitter 12, the intensity of electromagnetic waves irradiated onto the object 1 may not be stable. Specifically, the intensity of electromagnetic waves irradiated onto the object 1 may fluctuate due to the influence of moisture in the atmosphere, or the intensity of electromagnetic waves emitted from the transmitter 12 may fluctuate due to the characteristics of the transmitter 12. When the intensity of electromagnetic waves irradiated onto the object 1 fluctuates in this way, the intensity of electromagnetic waves detected by the first detectors 16a and 16b also fluctuates. In this embodiment, by measuring the intensity of electromagnetic waves before they are irradiated onto the object 1 using the third detector 26, fluctuations in the intensity of electromagnetic waves that are not affected by the object 1 can be detected. That is, fluctuations in the intensity of electromagnetic waves irradiated onto the object 1 can be detected. In this case, the detection results of the first detectors 16a and 16b can be evaluated taking into account the intensity of electromagnetic waves irradiated onto the object 1. For example, the intensity of electromagnetic waves scattered by the object 1 can be normalized by dividing the intensity detected by the first detectors 16a and 16b by the intensity detected by the third detector 26. In this case, the influence of fluctuations in the intensity of electromagnetic waves irradiated onto the object 1 can be excluded, and the intensity of electromagnetic waves scattered by the object 1 can be evaluated, thereby allowing for a more appropriate evaluation of the deterioration state of the object 1. In particular, in this embodiment, the intensity of electromagnetic waves before reaching the aperture 14 can be measured, so fluctuations in electromagnetic wave intensity based on the usage environment or the characteristics of the transmitter 12 can be detected more accurately. A detailed explanation is omitted, but the third detector 26 may be provided in the above-described analyzers 10a, 10b, and 10c.

[0059] The method for measuring the intensity of electromagnetic waves before they are irradiated onto the object is not limited to the examples described above. Figure 7 shows another example of an analytical apparatus.

[0060] The analytical apparatus 10e shown in Figure 7 is further equipped with a half-mirror 28 and a third detector 30 compared to the analytical apparatus 10 described in Figure 1. The half-mirror 28 is located between the transmitter 12 and the aperture 14. A known half-mirror can be used as the half-mirror 28, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0061] In the analysis apparatus 10e according to this embodiment, a portion of the electromagnetic waves emitted from the transmitter 12 passes through the half mirror 28 and the aperture 14 and irradiates the object 1. Another portion of the electromagnetic waves emitted from the transmitter 12 is reflected by the half mirror 28 and then received by the third detector 30. In this embodiment, the half mirror 28 corresponds to a mirror that reflects a portion of the electromagnetic waves before they reach the aperture. The ratio of the intensity of the electromagnetic waves passing through the half mirror 28 to the intensity of the electromagnetic waves reflected by the half mirror 28 may be appropriately changed depending on the operating environment of the analysis apparatus 10e, the state of the object 1, etc. For example, the intensity of the electromagnetic waves passing through the half mirror 28 may be higher, lower, or equal to the intensity of the electromagnetic waves reflected by the half mirror 28.

[0062] In the analysis apparatus 10e according to this embodiment, similar to the analysis apparatus 10d described above, the third detector 30 can measure the intensity of electromagnetic waves before they are irradiated onto the object 1. This makes it possible to evaluate the intensity of electromagnetic waves scattered, etc., at the object 1, while excluding the influence of fluctuations in the intensity of electromagnetic waves irradiated onto the object 1, similar to the analysis apparatus 10d described above. As a result, the deterioration state of the object 1 can be evaluated more appropriately. A detailed explanation is omitted, but the analysis apparatuses 10a, 10b, and 10c described above may also be equipped with a half mirror 28 and a third detector 30. In the analysis apparatus 10a shown in Figure 3, a portion of the electromagnetic waves that have passed through the aperture 14 but have not yet reached the object 1 may be reflected by the half mirror 22, and the intensity of the reflected electromagnetic waves may be detected by a third detector (not shown).

[0063] In the embodiment described above, the path of the electromagnetic waves is restricted by the aperture 14, but a lens that reduces the divergence angle of the electromagnetic waves may be further provided. Figure 8 shows another example of the analytical apparatus.

[0064] The analytical apparatus 10f shown in Figure 8 is further equipped with a collimating lens 32 compared to the analytical apparatus 10 described in Figure 1. In this embodiment, the collimating lens 32 corresponds to a lens that reduces the divergence angle of electromagnetic waves.

[0065] In the analysis apparatus 10f according to this embodiment, electromagnetic waves emitted from the transmitter 12 are shaped into parallel light by the collimating lens 32, then pass through the aperture 14 and irradiate the object 1. In this case, divergence of the electromagnetic waves before they reach the object 1 after passing through the aperture 14 can be suppressed, so that the electromagnetic waves can be appropriately irradiated to the part (evaluation part) where the corrosion state is to be evaluated. A detailed explanation is omitted, but in the analysis apparatuses 10a, 10b, 10c, and 10d described above, a lens that reduces the divergence angle of the electromagnetic waves (for example, a collimating lens) may be provided between the transmitter 12 and the aperture 14. Note that if a half mirror 28 is provided between the transmitter 12 and the aperture 14, as in the analysis apparatus 10e described above, the above lens will be provided, for example, between the half mirror 28 and the aperture 14.

[0066] Although the aperture 14 shown in Figures 1 to 8 has a plate shape, the shape of the aperture 14 shown in Figures 1 to 8 is merely an example. The aperture only needs to be configured to restrict the propagation path of electromagnetic waves, and its shape is not limited to a plate shape. For example, as shown in Figure 9, the analyzer 10g may be equipped with an aperture 34 having a hollow cylindrical body portion 34a. In this embodiment as well, the aperture 34 has through holes 34b formed therein to allow electromagnetic waves to pass through.

[0067] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 10, for example, the analyzer 10h may be equipped with a cylindrical aperture 36 formed such that its diameter (inner diameter) gradually decreases. In this embodiment, the electromagnetic waves emitted from the transmitter 12 have their propagation path restricted by passing through the inside (through-hole) of the aperture 36. In this embodiment, for example, a reflective portion that reflects electromagnetic waves (gigahertz waves) with almost no absorption may be provided on the inner surface of the aperture 36. That is, a cylindrical focusing mirror may be used as the aperture 36. In this case, when electromagnetic waves pass through the aperture 36, the propagation direction of the electromagnetic waves within the aperture 36 can be concentrated in the axial direction of the aperture 36. This makes it possible to appropriately limit the irradiation area of ​​the electromagnetic waves on the object 1 while suppressing a decrease in the intensity of the electromagnetic waves. The reflective portion is, for example, a metal film such as gold (Au) formed on the inner surface of the aperture 36. Furthermore, an absorbing portion that absorbs electromagnetic waves may be provided on the outer surface of the aperture 36. In this case, it is possible to prevent electromagnetic waves scattered by the outer surface of the aperture 36 from affecting the detection results of the first detectors 16a and 16b. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 10, a cylindrical light-shielding cover 38 may be provided to cover the first detectors 16a and 16b. In this case, it is possible to appropriately guide electromagnetic waves to the first detectors 16a and 16b while preventing electromagnetic waves other than those that should be detected from being received by the first detectors 16a and 16b. This enables more accurate analysis. Alternatively, an absorbing part that absorbs electromagnetic waves may be provided on the outer surface of the light-shielding cover 38. In this case, it is possible to sufficiently prevent electromagnetic waves scattered by the outer surface of the light-shielding cover 38 from affecting the detection results of the first detectors 16a and 16b. Furthermore, similar to the aperture 36 described above, a reflective part made of a metal film such as gold (Au) may be provided on the inner surface of the light-shielding cover 38. In this case, the electromagnetic waves that enter the light-shielding cover 38 after being scattered in object 1 can be received more efficiently by the first detectors 16a and 16b. Although not shown in the diagram, light-shielding covers may also be provided to cover the second detectors 24a, 24b, and 24c, respectively.

[0068] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 11, the analyzer 10i may be equipped with a light-shielding cover 40 that covers the transmitter 12 and the aperture 14. In this case, it is possible to prevent electromagnetic waves emitted from the transmitter 12 from directly entering the first detectors 16a and 16b. Note that the analyzers 10b and 10c shown in Figures 4 and 5 may also be equipped with a light-shielding cover 40. Note that an absorbing part that absorbs electromagnetic waves may be provided on the inner surface of the light-shielding cover 40. In this case, it is possible to sufficiently prevent electromagnetic waves emitted from the transmitter 12 from directly entering the first and second detectors.

[0069] Furthermore, although the above-described embodiment described a case where one aperture 14 is provided between the transmitter 12 and the object 1 (support base 18), multiple apertures may be provided between the transmitter 12 and the object 1 (support base 18). Also, one or more apertures may be provided between the object and the first detector, and between the object and the second detector. In this case, electromagnetic waves scattered by the object can be appropriately guided to the first or second detector. Furthermore, although the above-described embodiment described a case where the electromagnetic waves emitted from the transmitter 12 pass through the through-hole of the aperture before being irradiated onto the object, the electromagnetic waves emitted from the transmitter 12 may further pass through a filter that allows only electromagnetic waves of a predetermined frequency band to pass through. For example, as shown in Figure 11, a filter 42 that allows only electromagnetic waves of a predetermined frequency band to pass through may be provided in the aperture 14 so as to cover one end of the through-hole 14c. In this case, even if the output of the transmitter 12 is unstable, electromagnetic waves of the desired frequency band can be irradiated onto the object from the aperture 14, so as to enable stable analysis. When multiple apertures are provided in the analytical device, apertures of different shapes may be combined. Alternatively, instead of providing a reflective surface on the inner surface of the aperture 36 described above, a film that allows only electromagnetic waves of a predetermined frequency band to pass through may be formed. In this case as well, since electromagnetic waves of the desired frequency band can be irradiated onto the object from the aperture 36, stable analysis can be performed. [Industrial applicability]

[0070] According to the present invention, it becomes possible to appropriately analyze the corrosion state of steel materials within concrete. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0071] 1,1a Object 2 Concrete 3 Steel material 10,10a,10b,10c,10d,10e,10f,10g,10h,10i Analyzer 12 Transmitters 14, 34, 36 aperture 16a, 16b First detector 18 Support stand 20 Adjustment part 22,28 Half Mirror 24a, 24b, 24c Second detector 26,30 Third detector 32 Collimating Lenses 38,40 Light-blocking cover 42 filters

Claims

1. A transmitter equipped to emit electromagnetic waves having a frequency of 0.1 to 100 GHz toward an object, A throttle that restricts the propagation path of the electromagnetic wave emitted from the transmitter, Multiple first detectors capable of detecting the intensity of electromagnetic waves, The system includes a second detector, which is provided to detect the intensity of the electromagnetic waves that have passed through the object, The plurality of first detectors are arranged to receive the electromagnetic waves that are emitted from the transmitter, pass through the aperture, and are reflected from the object at different reflection angles without passing through the object.

2. A transmitter capable of emitting electromagnetic waves having a frequency of 0.1 to 100 GHz toward an object, A throttle that restricts the propagation path of the electromagnetic wave emitted from the transmitter, Multiple first detectors capable of detecting the intensity of electromagnetic waves, The system includes a third detector that detects the intensity of the electromagnetic wave before it reaches the aperture, The plurality of first detectors are arranged to receive the electromagnetic waves that are emitted from the transmitter, pass through the aperture, and are reflected from the object at different reflection angles without passing through the object.

3. A transmitter capable of emitting electromagnetic waves having a frequency of 0.1 to 100 GHz toward an object, A throttle that restricts the propagation path of the electromagnetic wave emitted from the transmitter, Multiple first detectors capable of detecting the intensity of electromagnetic waves, A mirror that reflects a portion of the electromagnetic waves before they reach the aperture, The system includes a third detector that detects the intensity of the electromagnetic waves reflected by the mirror, The plurality of first detectors are arranged to receive the electromagnetic waves that are emitted from the transmitter, pass through the aperture, and are reflected from the object at different reflection angles without passing through the object.

4. A transmitter equipped to emit electromagnetic waves having a frequency of 0.1 to 100 GHz toward an object, A throttle that restricts the propagation path of the electromagnetic wave emitted from the transmitter, Multiple first detectors capable of detecting the intensity of electromagnetic waves, The system includes a lens that reduces the divergence angle of the electromagnetic waves, The plurality of first detectors are arranged to receive the electromagnetic waves that are emitted from the transmitter, pass through the aperture, and are reflected from the object at different reflection angles without passing through the object.

5. A support base for supporting the aforementioned object, The analytical apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising an adjustment unit for adjusting the positional relationship between the object supported on the support base, the transmitter, and the plurality of first detectors.

6. The analytical apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 4, further comprising a second detector capable of detecting the intensity of the electromagnetic waves that have passed through the object.

7. The analytical apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 4, further comprising a third detector for detecting the intensity of the electromagnetic wave before it reaches the aperture.

8. A mirror that reflects a portion of the electromagnetic waves before they reach the aperture, The analytical apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 4, further comprising a third detector for detecting the intensity of the electromagnetic waves reflected by the mirror.

9. The analytical apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a lens for reducing the divergence angle of the electromagnetic waves.

10. The analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the aperture comprises a main body having a through hole formed therein that restricts the propagation path of the electromagnetic waves, and an absorbing part provided on the transmitter-side surface of the main body and absorbing a portion of the electromagnetic waves emitted from the transmitter.

11. Electromagnetic waves with a frequency of 0.1 to 100 GHz are emitted toward the target object. The path of the transmitted electromagnetic wave is restricted and irradiated onto the target object, After transmitting the electromagnetic waves toward the object, the intensity of the electromagnetic waves from the object is detected by a plurality of first detectors. The intensity of the electromagnetic waves that have passed through the object is detected by the second detector. An analysis method in which, when detecting the intensity of the electromagnetic waves, the plurality of first detectors are arranged so as to receive the electromagnetic waves that have been reflected from the object at different reflection angles without passing through the object.

12. An electromagnetic wave having a frequency of 0.1 to 100 GHz is emitted toward the target object. The path of the transmitted electromagnetic wave is restricted by an aperture and irradiated onto the target object. After transmitting the electromagnetic waves toward the object, the intensity of the electromagnetic waves from the object is detected by a plurality of first detectors. The intensity of the electromagnetic wave before it reaches the aperture is detected by the third detector. An analysis method in which, when detecting the intensity of the electromagnetic waves, the plurality of first detectors are arranged so as to receive the electromagnetic waves that have been reflected from the object at different reflection angles without passing through the object.

13. An electromagnetic wave having a frequency of 0.1 to 100 GHz is emitted toward the target object. The path of the transmitted electromagnetic wave is restricted by an aperture and irradiated onto the target object. After transmitting the electromagnetic waves toward the object, the intensity of the electromagnetic waves from the object is detected by a plurality of first detectors. A portion of the electromagnetic waves before reaching the aperture is reflected by a mirror. The intensity of the electromagnetic wave reflected by the mirror is detected by the third detector. An analysis method in which, when detecting the intensity of the electromagnetic waves, the plurality of first detectors are arranged so as to receive the electromagnetic waves that have been reflected from the object at different reflection angles without passing through the object.

14. An electromagnetic wave having a frequency of 0.1 to 100 GHz is emitted toward the target object. The divergence angle of the emitted electromagnetic wave is reduced by the lens, The path of the transmitted electromagnetic wave is restricted and irradiated onto the target object, After transmitting the electromagnetic waves toward the object, the intensity of the electromagnetic waves from the object is detected by a plurality of first detectors. An analysis method in which, when detecting the intensity of the electromagnetic waves, the plurality of first detectors are arranged so as to receive the electromagnetic waves that have been reflected from the object at different reflection angles without passing through the object.

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