However, inspired by rapid technology upgrading and innovative introduction of multi-discipline techniques, NDT-based approaches on timber health monitoring have demonstrated a trend of wider specificity, higher versatility, and enhanced complexity with nontrivial significance awareness and stringent applicability requirement.

This work conducts a comprehensive literature review on research and application of NDT technology on timber structures, aiming at synthesizing existing research and knowledge and thus contributing to a deeper understanding both theoretically and practically.

In recent years, NDT has seen rapid development and technique upgrading continuously, driven by advancements in technology like robotics, artificial intelligence, and the increasing demand for more accurate and efficient testing methods. One example of this fast development is the adoption of advanced imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT) and digital radiography (DR) in NDT. Thus, staying updated with fast development and technique upgrading of NDT is meaningful to have a deep insight into the better understanding of technical involvement, scientific knowledge, and engineering potential in this field.

This work aims to conduct a literature review to synthesize existing research and knowledge in the field of NDT on timber structures. By disseminating this information, dedicated contribution can be expected to a greater understanding of NDT techniques, promote best practices, and facilitate the sharing of knowledge among researchers, practitioners, and organizations.

In this article, the author organizes and classifies the most representative NDT techniques based on their global/local damage orientation, and provides a comprehensive elaboration of the basic principles, usage characteristics, research status, and applications of each method. On this basis, the corresponding advantages and disadvantages of each technique are summarized. This paper aims at reviewing the advancements in NDT technology for timber structures, thus contributing to a deeper understanding and more accurate assessment of timber health.

Read the full article at Science Direct.