Stress Measurement of Reinforcing Bars Embedded in Concrete by Hole-Drilling Method

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Title: Stress Measurement of Reinforcing Bars Embedded in Concrete by Hole-Drilling Method

Author(s): Mohammad T. Nikoukalam, Shahabeddin Torabian, and Said Bolourchi

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 364

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 52-61

Keywords: concrete; experimental; hole-drilling; in situ; measurement; reinforcing bar; residual; stress

DOI: 10.14359/51745456

Date: 12/1/2024

Abstract:

This research examines the hole-drilling method per ASTM E837, known for its minimal invasiveness, for measuring in situ stress in reinforcing bars embedded within concrete structures. The primary objective is to ascertain the applicability of this method in estimating non-apparent stresses, such as those resulting from the external loads, creep, shrinkage, or alkali-silica reaction, that are needed for structural assessment. Systematic experiments on reinforced concrete beams are conducted to validate the method’s viability in identifying these critical in situ stresses. The findings highlight the potential of the hole-drilling method to enhance structural health monitoring practices, offering an accurate tool for assessing stress states crucial for the maintenance and safety of concrete structures. The results demonstrated that while the hole-drilling method is robust for moderate-stress evaluations (up to about 70% of the nominal yield stress), it overestimates the stress in the reinforcing bar under high-stress conditions near the 100% nominal yield stress. This study contributes to the field by confirming the limits and applicability of the ASTM E837 standard for estimating the existing stress in the embedded reinforcing bars.

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