A modified wedge splitting test for susceptible quasi-brittle materials. (4th April 2022) - Neuner, M.
Abstract: A modified version of the wedge splitting test is proposed, aiming at the investigation of susceptible materials like young, hydrating concrete and shotcrete. Compared to the classical test, the employed specimens do not require a groove for mounting the wedge splitting device. A special mechanism allows the application of a low compressive prestressing on the specimens, which considerably improves the crack propagation behavior. The proposed approach is validated by means of an experimental program on concrete specimens with different material ages at testing, ranging from 1 d to 56 d, demonstrating its suitability for more and less pronounced softening material behavior. Highlights: A modified version of the wedge splitting test is proposed. The proposed method requires only simple specimen geometries. The method is suitable for more and less pronounced softening behavior. A low prestressing improves the crack propagation behavior. An experimental program demonstrates the good performance.