Ultrasonic Velocity Measurements Research Articles

Use of Ultrasound to Identify Microstructure-Property Relationships in (AlN + WC) Fabricated with Electroless Ni Producing

In order to improve the properties of the materials produced by the powder metallurgy method, first of all, powders (16.59% AlN + 6.63% WC) were coated with nickel (Ni) by electroless method, and then box boriding, which is one of the most widely used surface coating methods, was applied. A composite formed with (16.59% AlN + 6.63% WC)76.7Ni was prepared under the Ar shroud in the temperature range of 1000-1400°C. Pulse-echo technique was used for ultrasonic velocity measurements on Ni coated (16.59% AlN + 6.63% WC) samples. It is aimed to examine the change of physical, mechanical and ultrasonic properties of the obtained ceramic-metal composites depending on different sintering temperatures. In addition, the samples were characterized by mechanical and metallographic examination. The results show that the longitudinal and transverse ultrasonic velocity values and ultrasonic modulus (shear, bulk, Young’s etc.) values increase simultaneously with the increase of sintering temperature. The highest microhardness value was observed in composite samples sintered at 1400°C and its value was 1150.80 Hv. The increased strength is mainly due to grain refinement and strong interfacial bonding between Ni particles and AlN and WC matrix.

Structure and Mechanical Properties of a Titanium–8 wt.% Gallium Alloy

This paper describes a study of the microstructure and mechanical properties of a titanium–gallium (Ti-8 wt.% Ga) alloy using X-ray diffraction, optical metallography, micro-hardness measurements, compression and tensile testing, nanoindentation and ultrasonic velocity measurements. X-ray diffraction has shown the alloy to be wholly α Ti with no other phases present. A comparison of the hardness and elastic modulus values of the Ti-8Ga alloy with those of Ti-6Al-4V showed the former to have a significantly higher hardness, although the elastic moduli of the two alloys were broadly comparable. The study also indicated reasonable agreement between the elastic moduli obtained by nanoindentation, ultrasonic velocity measurements and tensile testing. Under compressive loading, the mean 0.2% proof stress values of the Ti-8Ga alloy were between 1066 MPa and 1083 MPa. However, under tensile conditions, the mean tensile strength was found to be only 427 MPa, and the alloy exhibited highly brittle behaviour, with specimens failing before they had undergone any appreciable plasticity. The cause of this was ascribed to high oxygen and nitrogen levels.

Study Regarding the Possibility of Using Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity (UPV) on Earthen Construction Evaluation

The determination of drying period, compressive strength, and air-dry density represent crucial parameters for assessing the quality and performance of earthen construction materials. This paper explores the possibilities of using the ultrasonic method as a non-destructive testing technique applied to earthen materials (specimens, elements, or structures) to determine these properties. The method relies on the measurement of ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV), which is influenced by factors such as density, elasticity, and curing process. By analyzing the propagation of ultrasonic waves through earthen samples, valuable insights can be gained regarding their drying period, compressive strength, and density. The drying period of earthen samples can be determined using the ultrasonic method by monitoring the changes in pulse velocity over time. As the moisture content decreases during the drying process, the velocity of ultrasonic waves increases due to the reduced presence of water. This allows for the estimation of the drying period without the need for time-consuming and destructive testing methods. Compressive strength is also a critical parameter in assessing the structural integrity of earthen materials. The UPV method offers a non-destructive approach to determine the compressive strength of earthen samples. This provides a valuable tool for quality control and assessment of earthen construction materials. Density is another important property that influences their performance and the UPV method can be used to determine the density of earthen materials by measuring the ultrasonic pulse velocity and analyzing its relationship with density. This non-destructive approach allows for quick and efficient estimation of the compactness and quality of earthen mixes. Overall, the ultrasonic method offers a non-destructive and efficient approach in determining the drying period, compressive strength, and density of various soil compositions. By measuring the pulse velocity and analyzing its relationship with these properties, valuable insights can be gained regarding the quality and performance of earthen construction materials. This method has the potential to significantly improve the assessment and quality control processes in earthen construction, leading to more sustainable and reliable structures associated with the earthen techniques.

Enhancing high-performance concrete with local andesite and calcined marl: Insights from heat treatment and untreated conditions

This study explores the incorporation of local Algerian andesite and calcined marl as supplementary cementitious materials in high-performance concrete (HPC), with a special focus on the effects of heat treatment. Advanced analytical techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), were used for material characterization. The Sherbrooke method was utilized for mix design optimization, and thermal curing effects were critically evaluated. Key results demonstrated that both andesite and calcined marl significantly enhance HPC performance. Fresh mixtures showed excellent workability and consistent density. In the hardened state, these admixtures reduced porosity and water absorption capacity, improving durability. Heat-treated samples exhibited substantial early strength gains, while non-heat-treated samples showed superior long-term strength due to ongoing pozzolanic activity. Ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) measurements confirmed the high quality of the concrete. Tomography revealed a dense pore structure and strong interfacial transition zones, contributing to overall performance. Statistical modeling using the Design of Experiments (DOE) methodology validated the experimental findings and identified optimal conditions for maximizing compressive strength. Sulfuric acid exposure tests indicated good chemical resistance, with balanced performance in maintaining residual strengths and managing weight losses. This research underscores the potential of using local andesite and calcined marl to enhance HPC, promoting sustainable construction practices in Algeria by reducing reliance on imports and utilizing regional resources. In summary, this study contributes to sustainable HPC development by demonstrating the effectiveness of local mineral admixtures. The dual benefits of heat treatment for early strength gain and non-heat-treated conditions for long-term durability offer valuable insights for optimizing HPC formulations, advancing our understanding of pozzolanic materials, and promoting environmental stewardship and economic efficiency in the construction industry.

Protective potential of high-contrast mineral-bonded layers on reinforced concrete slabs subjected to uniform shock waves

This study compares the blast performance of reinforced concrete (RC) slabs with and without strengthening on the impact-facing side. The strengthening strategy employed the application of two thin layers of materials with a high mutual stiffness offset, i.e., high-contrast layers. The first is a low-strength, low-modulus damping layer made of infra-lightweight concrete, followed by a second layer of high-ductility fiber-reinforced concrete. The plain RC slabs under investigation vary in thickness of either 40mm or 100mm. The layered specimens consist of a 40mm thick RC slab strengthened with a 40mm damping layer and a 20mm cover SHLC3 layer. This configuration enables a comparison of its behavior with the unstrengthened specimen (a plain 40mm thick RC slab) and a specimen with a similar eigenfrequency (the plain 100mm thick RC slab). The employed shock tube subjects the specimens to two rapidly rising areal pressures: a low-pressure wave reaching approximately 0.4MPa and a high-pressure wave peaking at around 1.2MPa. The study assesses the specimens’ response in terms of accelerations, velocities, and deformations. Additionally, it evaluates damage by analyzing crack patterns, Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity (UPV) measurements, and damping analysis. Overall, the layered specimens exhibited performance nearly equivalent to the 100mm thick specimens, displaying similar deformations and velocities despite having lower mass and bending stiffness. The high-pressure shock wave hardly damaged the layered specimens, unlike the 40mm thick slabs.

The Effects of Ester and Ether Polycarboxylate Superplasticizers on the Fluidity and Setting Behavior of Alkali-Activated Slag Paste.

This study aims to investigate the comparative performance of ester- and ether-based polycarboxylate superplasticizers in maintaining the fluidity and controlling the setting time of alkali-activated slag (AAS) paste. The experiments employed rheological tests, mini-slump tests, ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) measurements, and gel permeation chromatography (GPC) analysis. The results indicate that ether-based superplasticizers maintain fluidity approximately 25% longer than their ester-based counterparts and extend the setting time by about 30%. The enhanced performance of ether-based superplasticizers is attributed to their superior molecular stability in highly alkaline environments, which mitigates early polymer degradation. Additionally, the Na2O/SiO2 ratio was maintained at 1:1 throughout the experiments to ensure consistency in the activation process. The relationship between fluidity loss and the onset of setting occurs more rapidly in AAS paste than in conventional cement-based systems. These findings provide valuable insights for the development of environmentally friendly construction materials by optimizing the use of superplasticizers in alkali-activated systems.

Evaluation of non-destructive testing and long-term durability of geopolymer aggregate concrete

Recent advancements in concrete technology focus more on increasing strength than durability. Concrete with good durability will withstand adverse conditions like frost, chloride penetration, sulfate assault, alkali-aggregate reaction, steel corrosion, etc., which will lower the strength of the concrete. Strength is vital, but so is durability. The present study examined and discussed the durability parameters of conventional concrete made with geopolymer aggregate (GPA) as a partial substitute for natural aggregate. Strength studies in this research found that the optimal level of substitution for natural coarse aggregate by GPA was 100% replacement to produce the performing concrete. Replacement of natural coarse aggregate by geopolymer aggregate exhibits 9%–15% higher compressive strength than natural aggregate concrete. The findings reveal that concrete with 100% geopolymer aggregate exhibits a compressive strength increase of 9%–15% over that of concrete made with natural aggregates. Ultrasonic pulse velocity measurements for geopolymer aggregate concrete range between 4 km/s and 4.5 km/s, indicating good quality according to IS specifications. Additionally, Rebound Hammer test results further support the enhanced quality of geopolymer aggregate concrete. However, the porosity of geopolymer aggregates results in a sorptivity that is 10%–30% higher than that of natural aggregate concrete. Despite this, the increased resistance to acid and sulfate attacks is noted, attributed to the strong bonding between geopolymer aggregates and the cement matrix.

Evaluation of Concrete Fatigue Damage with Elastic Wave-based Measurement Techniques

Fatigue damage is a progressive and permanent change in the internal material structure due to cyclic loading. The cyclic loads can be due to wind, waves, temperature variation, and traffic loads. Each cyclic load application introduces micro-damages that accumulate to induce failure. Detecting these micro-damages requires sensitive measuring techniques. Hence this research compares the sensitivity of different measuring techniques applied to fatigue experiments of concrete. The applied NDT are the passive acoustic emission technique (AET) and active ultrasonic measurements. In addition, linear variable differential transformers (LVDTs) are applied as a reference measurement. Accordingly in this research, cylindrical concrete samples are subjected to monotonic and cyclic Brazilian splitting tests. The cylinders are 100 mm in diameter and 150 mm in length. The cyclic load is applied to these samples with a loading frequency of 5 Hz. During the tests, the damage evolution is monitored with AET, ultrasonic measurements and LVDTs. There are eight AE sensors attached to the sample. The two LVDTs are positioned at the center of the sample's front and back side. Besides passively monitoring the acoustic emissions, the AET sensors are also used to do active ultrasonic measurements. The research reports the comparison conducted on the deformations and cracks measured with the LVDTs, the damage growth identified with the AET, and the change in the ultrasonic pulse velocity measurements. In addition, the study also presents the damage analysis capacity of the methods across different types of loading: monotonic, constant amplitude, and stepped fatigue loading. The comparison shows that combination of AET and ultrasonic velocity measurement is a sensitive indicator for damage growth.

Enhanced Thermoacoustic Imaging System with Parallel Ultrasonic Velocity Measurement for Distinguishing Types of Microwave-Absorbing Anomalies

Enhanced Thermoacoustic Imaging System with Parallel Ultrasonic Velocity Measurement for Distinguishing Types of Microwave-Absorbing Anomalies

Impact of Admixtures on Segregation in Self-compacting concrete: A Comparative Study Between Standardized and Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity (UPV) Methods

Mastering the rheology of self-compacting concrete (SCC) remains a major challenge for researchers. One of the main obstacles is segregation, an undesirable phenomenon where aggregates separate from the matrix, thus compromising the quality and homogeneity of the material. This study aims to use the ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) measurement technique to evaluate the variation in the degree of static segregation in self-compacting concretes. To do so, column-type molds of different sizes were fabricated. The first was designed in accordance with the recommendations of standard V1, while the others, of different dimensions, were made according to standards V2 and V3. The latter allowed the study of the scale effect on the segregation of SCC, by comparing the results with those obtained using UPV. Five SCC mixes, containing respectively 1%, 1.2%, 1.4%, 1.6% and 1.8% of admixture, were tested using standard techniques (sieve and column test), then compared to the results obtained with the UPV method. The experimental results of the two methods were analyzed and compared to other tests, such as spread, L-box, and sieve stability. Moreover, the correlation between the results of the ultrasonic tests and those of the standardized tests (V1, V2, and V3) showed a high coefficient of determination R²: 86% for V1, 92% for V2 and 87% for V3. These results demonstrate that the UPV method is a promising alternative for evaluating segregation of fresh concrete.

Measurement of thickness and ultrasonic velocities based on imaging method using laser-generated ultrasonic waves at thermoelastic regime

Abstract This study introduces a simple method for determining thickness and ultrasonic velocities, including skimming longitudinal waves, longitudinal waves, and shear waves, utilizing laser-induced ultrasonic waves at the thermoelastic regime and the time-position imaging technique. Laser scanning was performed on two aluminum samples with thicknesses of 6 mm and 10 mm, generating data on the arrival time of multiple wave modes according to the separated distances of two laser spots. Using the least squares technique, the data obtained from the experiment were employed to fit theoretical curves of various waves, enabling the simultaneous determination of several material parameters. The proposed method exhibits high accuracy in determining thickness, with a maximum relative error of 1% for thicknesses up to 10 mm. Additionally, comparisons with theoretical calculations reveal maximum errors of 1 % for shear wave velocity and 0.8 % for longitudinal wave velocity. The ratio between the velocity of skimming longitudinal wave and bulk longitudinal wave of 0.95 was established, providing a prospective method to calculate longitudinal wave velocity through guided waves along the surface.

Assessment of Weld Microstructure Through Sound Velocity Measurements for Power Plant Applications

This research study employed an immersion-based micro-resolution ultrasonic velocity measurement technique (MUVT) to evaluate Grade 91 (9Cr-1Mo-V) steel welds. This process utilized a 20 MHz focused ultrasonic beam with a spot size of 250 µm, a 6 µm laser vibrometer spot size for detection, and an automated 3-axis raster scanner to accurately collect ultrasonic velocity data from two Grade 91 steel welds fabricated using cold metal transfer (CMT) and flux-cored arc welding (FCAW) processes. By analyzing the MUVT data, the Poisson’s ratio (υ) and modulus of elasticity (E), which are important mechanical properties for weldments, were calculated. The correlation between mechanical properties and ultrasonic velocity was examined. The results indicated that longitudinal ultrasonic velocity could effectively identify base metal, heat-affected zone (HAZ), and weld metal areas, showing a strong correlation with hardness. In particular, the distinctive V-shaped dip in velocity and hardness data across the HAZ areas of both samples highlighted changes in the microstructure of creep strength–enhanced ferritic steel welds. Importantly, the immersion-based MUVT demonstrated high accuracy in small sections of the weld, surpassing the conventional contact ultrasonic testing method in spatial resolution detection.

Development of fluid pathways and associated diagenetic variations in a natural CO2 leaking fault zone.

Abstract Permeability within fault zones can vary through time due to repeated deformation events and rock–fluid interactions. Understanding the history of fault zone alteration is critical when building hydrogeologic models and evaluating the risk of mechanical rock failure during subsurface storage. Newly acquired drill core recovered within the fault damage zone and fault core of the Little Grand Wash fault (LGWF) is combined with observations from outcrop, optical petrography, computerized tomography image analysis, and ultrasonic velocity measurements to characterize the rock types and preserved structural deformation features within this fault zone. These data are used to understand the history of mechanical rock failure and mineralization associated with this fluid-charged fault system. We identify multiple structural features and use their cross-cutting relationships to understand the history of deformation and their association with changes in fault zone permeability and rock mechanical properties. At the LGWF zone, structural deformation features vary temporally and are used to recognize a decoupling between fault slip and fluid flow. The formation of most open-mode veins occurred after shear failure within the LGWF zone. Early-developed shear bands are cut by carbonate veins, that are in turn cut by shear fractures, followed by a second phase of vein formation and ultimately by folding in the fault core. This sequence of formation reflects changes in mechanical rock properties due to subsurface rock–fluid interactions and indicates that the alteration of rock matrix by secondary carbonate cement results in increased unconfined compressive strength, decreased permeability, and increased ultrasonic velocity. In this fault zone, and possibly other fault zones, the changes in rock properties associated with deformation can be detected through their geophysical response.

AI-Driven Prediction of Compressive Strength in Self-Compacting Concrete: Enhancing Sustainability through Ultrasonic Measurements

This study investigates the application of artificial intelligence (AI) to predict the compressive strength of self-compacting concrete (SCC) through ultrasonic measurements, thereby contributing to sustainable construction practices. By leveraging advancements in computational techniques, specifically artificial neural networks (ANNs), we developed highly accurate predictive models to forecast the compressive strength of SCC based on ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) measurements. Our findings demonstrate a clear correlation between higher UPV readings and improved concrete quality, despite the general trend of decreased compressive strength with increased air-entraining admixture (AEA) concentrations. The ANN models show exceptional effectiveness in predicting compressive strength, with a correlation coefficient (R2) of 0.99 between predicted and actual values, providing a robust tool for optimizing SCC mix designs and ensuring quality control. This AI-driven approach enhances sustainability by improving material efficiency and significantly reducing the need for traditional destructive testing methods, thus offering a rapid, reliable, and non-destructive alternative for assessing concrete properties.

Development and study of ultrasonic pulse velocity measurement system using wave analysis and two-point detection approach

Abstract This article focuses on the development and analysis of an Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity (UPV) measurement system used for the evaluation of concrete and Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) in civil construction. The UPV tester is essential for on-site assessments of structures, as it is used to measure the velocity of ultrasonic waves within the material, directly correlating with its strength. UPV testing is affected by the attenuation of ultrasonic waves in concrete, particularly due to the interfacial transition zone. Excess ultrasonic attenuation results in the reduction in the received signal amplitude which may also results in the omission of the initial pulses due to threshold comparison at the receiver. The study highlights the impact of receiver gain on threshold error and discusses the limitations associated with ADC sampling rate and amplitude resolution. UPV measurement, including counter or data acquisition approach, have error contributions associated with threshold voltage comparison. The error due to threshold amplitude selection is quantified, emphasizing the importance of accurate signal analysis, particularly in highly attenuating medium. The article presents the design and development of a PC-based UPV tester with automatic threshold error compensation. The system includes a transmitter, receiver, 32-bit microcontroller, and a Graphical User Interface (GUI) for data analysis. The article introduces a two-point linear detection logic to minimize errors caused by selected signal amplitude and omission of initial pulses in transit time measurements. The proposed method provides effective resolution of 10 ns through software, even at low sampling rate of 2 MS/s. The experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the developed UPV tester, with comparisons to a reference calibration facility at CSIR-NPL. The standard deviation in the ultrasonic transit time measurement by the developed UPV device, with threshold error correction, was ±70 ns.

Anisotropic behavior and mechanical characteristics of the Montney Formation

This study investigates the rock mechanics and anisotropic properties of the Montney Formation, Alberta, through two sets of experiments: unconfined compressive strength tests and triaxial compression tests, supplemented by ultrasonic wave velocity measurements. These tests enabled the calculation of dynamic and static stiffness properties and Thomsen anisotropy parameters (ε, δ, γ). Our findings reveal that the Montney Formation exhibits weak anisotropy, with ε values generally below 0.10, contrasting with other strongly anisotropic shale formations. Specimens exhibiting higher clay content and total organic carbon levels show more pronounced anisotropy. Static measurements exhibit a higher degree of anisotropy compared to dynamic measurements. The investigation also explored loading and unloading stiffness parameters, noting a higher E loading-to-unloading ratio for rock specimens with lower elastic properties. This provides important information on the rock's response to stress path effects during stimulation and exploitation. The study also discusses other rock mechanics parameters including Poisson's ratio, tensile strength, and brittleness. The research contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the geomechanical and petrophysical behavior of the Montney Formation, aiding reservoir characterization and hydrocarbon exploration and production.

Elastic and anisotropic properties of organic‐rich lacustrine shales: An experimental study

AbstractExperimental investigation of the elastic behaviours of lacustrine shales remains sparse, although they play an essential role in source rock evaluation, unconventional reservoir exploration and development, and the seal integrity evaluation for geological storage of CO2 and nuclear waste disposal. We make the ultrasonic velocity measurement of 63 organic‐rich shale samples (Chang 7, Qingshankou and Lucaogou formation) from three typical lacustrine basins in China. It is found that the P‐ and S‐wave velocity of Chang 7 and Qingshankou shale corresponding to the fresh‐brackish lacustrine depositional environment is mainly impacted by the clay and organic matter content, whereas their elastic anisotropic magnitude is mostly influenced by clay content. The P‐ and S‐wave velocities of Lucaogou shale corresponding to the saline lacustrine depositional environment are mainly affected by the total organic carbon and porosity and exhibit weak anisotropy linked to organic matter enrichment. Exponential law well captures the relationship between anisotropic magnitude and velocity perpendicular to bedding for both saline and fresh‐brackish water lacustrine shales, although there exists notable discrepancy, particularly at low velocities. The disparity in elasticity between laminations has a profound impact on the magnitude of elastic anisotropy and shapes the trend of velocity variations.

Ultrasonic velocity and density measurement for mortar characterization: Investigation of correlations with mortar porosity and sand grain size

Ultrasonic velocity and density measurement for mortar characterization: Investigation of correlations with mortar porosity and sand grain size

Experimental study on the comparison of mechanical properties of different types of glutenite in the Ma'nan area

This study delves into the mechanical properties of various rock types found in glutenite reservoirs in the Ma'nan area of the Xinjiang oilfield. It bridges a knowledge gap by exploring the mechanical deformation and failure patterns among different glutenite types. Employing porosity-permeability tests, ultrasonic wave velocity measurements, and triaxial compression tests, this research scrutinizes physical parameters, mechanical properties, deformation, and failure modes of dolomitic sandstone, calcareous coarse sandstone, calcareous fine siltstone, and glutenite. Results highlight a porosity increase from dolomitic sandstone to glutenite, with calcareous coarse sandstone having the lowest permeability and glutenite the highest. Shear wave velocity is greater in dolomitic sandstone and calcareous coarse sandstone compared to calcareous fine siltstone, while longitudinal wave velocity is higher in dolomitic sandstone than in glutenite. Deformation behavior varies: dolomitic sandstone is primarily elastic, and calcareous sandstone and glutenite show elastoplastic characteristics. Dolomitic sandstone boasts the highest compressive strength, elastic modulus, and Poisson's ratio. Calcareous fine siltstone's compressive strength and elastic modulus fall below dolomitic sandstone, while the Poisson's ratio of calcareous coarse sandstone is three-quarters that of dolomitic sandstone. Main failure modes observed are shear failure in dolomitic sandstone, calcareous coarse sandstone, and glutenite, and axial splitting failure in calcareous fine siltstone. Microscopic analyses, including environmental scanning electron microscopy and mineral composition, shed light on the mechanical differences among the rocks. In sum, this research yields crucial insights into the mechanical traits of glutenite reservoir rocks, essential for optimizing hydraulic fracturing strategies in such reservoirs.

Velocity Anisotropy: Temperature Effect on Thomson’s Parameter of Ogun Shale, Ogun State, Nigeria

When a rock’s physical property is directional or orientation-dependent, the rock is described as being anisotropic. Shale is a common sedimentary rock with inherent anisotropic nature gotten from its geological evolution. Thus in studying the elastic properties of shale, the direction of the wave propagation has to be considered and reported. Velocity anisotropy of shale with temperature effect on the Thomson’s anisotropic parameters was carried out on shales from Ogun state in the southwestern part of Nigeria. Ultrasonic velocity measurement was carried out at temperatures ranging between 50 and 300 ˚C. Elastic properties, as well as the anisotropic parameters were determined. The parameters were compared with the temperature and elastic properties of the samples. Results showed that Ogun state shales are anisotropic and that both P and S wave pulses exhibited higher values in the horizontal direction (along the bedding plane) than in the vertical orientation (normal to the bedding plane) of the samples. Elastic modulus was higher in the horizontal direction while the Poisson’s ratio and velocity ratio were higher in the vertical plane. Anisotropic parameters, gamma (ϒ) and epsilon (Ԑ) exhibited value reduction up to about 150 ˚C when they started to increase with increasing temperature. Gamma however increased more notably than the epsilon. This result indicated that fractures and microcracks within the shale samples closed up as the samples expanded due to temperature increase.