Title:
Evaluating Unbonded Pad Alternatives to ‘Fixed-End Grinding’ A New Approach to Ultra-High-Performance Concrete Compression Testing
Author(s):
Waldron
Publication:
Web Session
Volume:
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
Keywords:
DOI:
Date:
3/30/2025
Abstract:
Obtaining the compressive strength of Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) is considerably more demanding than for traditional concrete. ASTM C1856 mandates that UHPC test cylinders be “fixed-end” ground, eliminating sulfur capping or rubber pads, which are common for traditional concrete. Meeting this standard requires costly grinding equipment and labor intensive preparation, presenting challenges to the industry’s need for efficient, cost effective testing solutions, especially when same-day strength data is desired. This study experimentally demonstrates that unbonded pads placed between the cylinder end and steel loading cap can replicate the fixed-end ground condition, achieving comparable strength results up to 30ksi.