Comparative evaluation regarding the efficiency of the methodologies used for determining the compressive strength of concrete: standard (destructive) method vs. non-destructive method

Abstract

Determining the concrete compressive strength is an important issue for both existing and new constructions. Existing constructions, subject to retrofit and / or extension, require the determination of concrete compressive strength in specific elements, for the realistic and correct evaluation of the structure in terms of overall strength and stability. New constructions, on the other hand, may face situations when there are doubts about the quality of the delivered concrete, the casting operations or other technological or design flaws. The correct determination of the actual concrete compressive strength may be essential in evaluating the structural health and identifying the optimum design and technological solutions for the evaluated building. Non-destructive methods for determining the concrete strength are, by definition, minimally invasive methods, namely they do not affect the integrity of the structure. This paper provides a comparison between the combined non-destructive method and the destructive, classical method for compressive strength determination.

Keywords

• non-destructive methods
• destructive method
• quality control
• structural health