Calibration of sonic pulse velocity tests for detection of variable conditions in masonry walls. (20th December 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Valluzzi, Maria Rosa; Cescatti, Elvis; Cardani, Giuliana; Cantini, Lorenzo; Zanzi, Luigi; Colla, Camilla; Casarin, Filippo
• Is Part Of: Construction & building materials. Volume 192(2018)
• Page Start: 272
• Page End: 286
• Publication Date: 2018-12-20
• Subjects: Sonic pulse velocity -- Direct tests -- Tomography -- MASW -- Brick masonry -- Stone masonry -- NDT -- Calibration -- Grout injection -- Flaw; Building materials -- Periodicals; 624.18
• DOI: 10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2018.10.073
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0950-0618

Abstract

Highlights: Experimental validation of diagnostic methods based on waves propagation on purpose-built masonry specimens. Comparison of different methods based on sonic wave transmission on representative types of masonry. Optimization of sonic test procedure to identify anomalies in masonry. Identification of sonic velocity values of various materials detectable in existing masonry. Abstract: Sonic pulse velocity is a non-destructive method used for diagnosing existing masonry and evaluating the effectiveness of interventions. A new comparative study is presented here, aimed at checking the reliability of the method in detecting inhomogeneities in order to qualify various masonry conditions, according to common practice and up-to-date tools, for both on-site testing and data handling. Four research groups applied direct and tomographic sonic velocity tests on three full-size wall specimens representing existing masonry types. The surface wave method was also applied to one of the specimens, to compare various outputs of elastic wave transmission. The panels incorporated various flaws and inclusions and were consolidated by grout injections. Each research unit applied its own acquisition systems and processing methods before and after panel consolidation. The results confirmed the ability of sonic pulse velocity tests in detecting large inclusions and significant variations in compactness, and provided quantitative reference values for materials and conditions. The research provided directions for further optimization of sonic waves transmission test application in already existing masonry constructions.