Prediction of Concrete Compressive Strength by Means of Combined Non-Destructive Testing

Abstract

The problem of estimating mechanical properties of buildings materials is a major issue in civil engineering, especially when dealing with existing structures. In such occasion a valuable help is given by Non Destructive Testings, which allow materials characteristics to be evaluated in a non-invasive way. This paper analyses the efficacy of the SonReb method - a non destructive technique which statistically combines the results of Ultrasonic and Rebound Hammer Testing in predicting concrete compressive strength. The SonReb method has been applied on concrete specimens later on exposed to compressive strength test. The effectiveness of several empirical formulas expressing SonReb results is illustrated and discussed.