Non-destructive testing of high strength concrete using spectral analysis of surface waves

Non-destructive testing is essential in the inspection of alteration, repair and new construction in construction industry. In this paper, a non-destructive testing using spectral analysis of surface waves (SASW) is presented, which can be applied to concrete structures. The method consists of the generation, measurement and processing of dispersive surface waves. This study is focus on the applicability and limitations of the SASW method in a high strength concrete. Using the impact-echo method, the compression wave velocities were obtained based on different high strength concrete ages and compressive strength. The equation to obtain the compressive strength of high strength concrete has been developed using the obtained compression wave velocities (f'c = 1.083 Vp-3816.1143). Similarly, the equation has been developed to obtain the compressive strengths of high strength concrete based on the surface wave velocities (f'c = 0.253 Vp + 16.271). This study can be utilized in examining structural elements of high strength concrete structures and be applied in the integrity analysis of high strength concrete structures with a finite thickness.