Accurate Nondestructive Concrete Pavement Thickness Estimation Using Modified Impact Echo Method

In pavement construction and evaluation, the estimation of top-layer thickness is of high interest, where an accuracy of ±¼ inch (±6mm) is desired. However, the only method that consistently reaches this level of accuracy is destructive coring. Non-destructive testing (NDT) methods are capable of covering broader areas, thereby minimizing structural and functional disruptions; however the accuracy of NDT methods remains a matter of discussion. Results of the application of a simple NDT method for thickness estimation of concrete slabs using surface waves is presented in this paper. The method introduced herein is based on the impact-echo method. Test results from mature concrete slabs under different moisture conditions and newly cast concrete slabs are reported. The effects of changing material Poisson’s ratio are shown to be significant, and proper selection of this value is essential. However, comparisons of the surface wave method with the standardized impact-echo method (ASTM C1383) demonstrate that the new surface wave approach exhibits better consistency and accuracy. Thickness estimates employing surface waves are often within ±6mm of actual thickness, regardless of the moisture condition or Poisson’s ratio.

• Corporate Authors:

  Transportation Research Board

  500 Fifth Street, NW
  Washington, DC  United States  20001
• Authors:
  • Alzate, Sara P
  • Popovics, John
• Conference:
  • Transportation Research Board 89th Annual Meeting
  • Location: Washington DC, United States
  • Date: 2010-1-10 to 2010-1-14
• Date: 2010

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: DVD
• Features: Figures; Photos; References; Tables;
• Pagination: 17p
• Monograph Title: TRB 89th Annual Meeting Compendium of Papers DVD

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Concrete pavements; Moisture content; Nondestructive tests; Pavement layers; Pavement performance; Rayleigh waves; Road construction; Thickness
• Subject Areas: Construction; Highways; Pavements; I52: Construction of Pavements and Surfacings;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01151189
• Record Type: Publication
• Report/Paper Numbers: 10-2944
• Files: TRIS, TRB
• Created Date: Feb 24 2010 7:42AM