DETECTING VOIDS IN GROUTED TENDON DUCTS OF POST-TENSIONED CONCRETE STRUCTURES USING THE IMPACT-ECHO METHOD

A nondestructive testing technique that uses transient stress waves is part of an ongoing research program at Cornell University, which is aimed at developing the theoretical basis and practical applications for the impact-echo method. This paper describes a phase of the program involving detection of voids in grouted tendon ducts in post-tensioned concrete structures. Findings from the numerical finite element studies, controlled-flaw laboratory studies, and a field study are presented. Three-dimensional dynamic finite element analyses were performed to examine the response of fully grouted, partially grouted, and ungrouted tendon ducts to transient stress waves. Laboratory specimens were constructed and tested to confirm the numerical results. Numerical and laboratory studies showed that the impact-echo method could be used successfully to detect both complete and partial voids in grouted tendon ducts. A field study was then conducted on an existing post-tensioned bridge. Fully grouted, partially grouted, and ungrouted tendon ducts located in actual bridge girders were examined. The results of the impact-echo tests were verified by invasive testing; the ducts were opened up and visually inspected. The impact-echo results correctly located fully grouted, partially grouted, and ungrouted tendon ducts.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/oclc/13846957
• Corporate Authors:

  American Concrete Institute (ACI)

  38800 Country Club Drive
  Farmington Hills, MI  United States  48331
• Authors:
  • Jaeger, B J
  • Sansalone, M J
  • Poston, R W
• Publication Date: 1996-7

Language

• English

Media Info

• Features: Figures; References;
• Pagination: p. 462-473
• Serial:
  • ACI Structural Journal
  • Volume: 93
  • Issue Number: 4
  • Publisher: American Concrete Institute (ACI)
  • ISSN: 0889-3241
  • Serial URL: http://www.concrete.org/PUBS/JOURNALS/SJHOME.ASP

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Concrete; Crash tests; Grout; Nondestructive tests; Posttensioning; Prestressing; Research; Steel
• Old TRIS Terms: Prestressed steels
• Subject Areas: Geotechnology; Highways; Materials; Research; I35: Miscellaneous Materials;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00726977
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Oct 26 1996 12:00AM