Title: Determination of In Situ Concrete Strength: Rapidly and Confidently by Nondestructive Testing

Author(s): Alek Samarin and Ravindra K. Dhir

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 82

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 77-94

Keywords: compressive strength; concretes; impact hammer tests; nondestructive tests; ultrasonic tests.

DOI: 10.14359/6550

Date: 9/1/1984

Abstract:
The determination of concrete properties using theoretical and/or empirical relationships is commonly used in the design and construction of concrete structures. It is argued that, at best, all such estimates could only be approximate, given the varied nature of concrete due to its intrinsic make-up and work-manship, as well as such factors as environmental conditions and age. The use of non-destructive testing of concrete should be assessed against this background. The current position on the testing of in-situ concrete is briefly reviewed and the potential application of the non-destructive tests discussed. A method combining the rebound hammer and pulse velocity readings is explained. Both tests are very simple and rapid to perform and from the studies undertaken in Australia and Scotland it would appear that the combined method approach could help to further increase the confidence in estimating the strength of in-situ concrete.