Title: Application of ultrasonic methods for early age concrete characterisation

Authors: Dunja Mikulic, Dubravka Bjegovic, Nina Stirmer, Dalibor Sekulic

Addresses: Faculty of Civil Engineering, University of Zagreb, Fra Andrije Kacica Miosica, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia. ' Faculty of Civil Engineering, University of Zagreb, Fra Andrije Kacica Miosica, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia. ' Faculty of Civil Engineering, University of Zagreb, Fra Andrije Kacica Miosica, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia. ' Civil Engineering Institute of Croatia, Janka Rakuse 1, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia

Abstract: Concrete setting and hardening process are the most critical phases during construction work, influencing to properties of concrete structure, so the application of efficiency non-destructive test methods for early age concrete properties determination is crucial. Penetrometer, pull out and Vicat needle methods are standardised methods for young concrete characterisation. Paper shows that ultrasound methods have potential to be used for these purposes. Measurements of longitudinal compressive wave velocity through concrete and mortar during hardening process are performed. For mixtures preparation different additives were used. Obtained results indicate possibility for hardening process monitoring and time of cementitous materials setting determination.

Keywords: ultrasonic testing; early age concrete; acoustic waves; nondestructive testing; NDT; concrete characterisation; concrete properties; materials properties; concrete setting; concrete hardening; process monitoring.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMMP.2006.011645

International Journal of Microstructure and Materials Properties, 2006 Vol.1 No.3/4, pp.297 - 309

Published online: 07 Dec 2006 *

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