A Review of the Role of Infrared Thermography in Conservation and Restoration of Historic Buildings as A Non-destructive Method and Its Application in the Construction Industry

Non-destructive testing is one of the non-invasive and non-contact methods that allow us to ensure the correct operation of the structure without damaging it. Since non-destructive methods do not damage the structural components, it saves time and money. On the other hand, historic buildings have been exposed to considerable damages over time, and even after protective measures, they need constant monitoring and control. Therefore, using non-destructive methods, historical buildings can be preserved. Infrared thermography is one of the non-destructive methods that provide thermal images (thermograms) by thermal cameras to evaluate historic buildings and multiple structures without damaging the components of the structure in the shortest time. This research reviews some articles regarding non-destructive infrared thermography using the descriptive-analytical method. Also, this paper introduces the infrared thermography method, its types, and its application in historic buildings and the construction industry. Examination of the mentioned materials and examples showed that the researchers could use this method to determine the pattern of cracks in buildings, detect damage in the interior and exterior of the building, investigate the place of energy loss in the building, damage in the openings, and determine the texture of materials. It is also possible to distinguish between newly repaired parts and pre-existing parts with the help of surface thermometers and based on different thermal properties of materials.