Digital Image Correlation Advances in Structural Evaluation Applications: A Review

Structural evaluations are important for monitoring performance and behavior changes that occur due to environmental or other loading conditions. As a renowned experimental mechanics technique, digital image correlation (DIC) has become a widely accepted tool for obtaining not only qualitative, but quantitative structural engineering measurements. In this review, the principles of DIC for displacement field measurements are presented through structural evaluation illustrations. Several developing studies of the method in combination with other techniques for novel assessment approaches are also discussed. The method has grown immensely from conception, and its significance for paving the way to infrastructure resiliency framework is further highlighted. Ongoing DIC measurement challenges can also be reviewed in addition to leading initiatives for addressing future needs in evaluating the structural infrastructure. Overall, this review promotes the flexibility of DIC for implementation as a fully deployable structural evaluation method with great sustainable implications.