PURPOSES: Knowing the scope of deterioration of the concrete slab around spalling is important in determining the size of the partial-depth repair. The change in the material properties of the concrete slab, according to the severity of spalling and distance from spalling, is analyzed herein by performing non-destructive and destructive tests at the field and in the laboratory.
METHODS: The test slabs were determined by finding spallings with high or medium severity. The relative elastic modulus was measured near the spalling, far from spalling, and around the slab center using an impact echo equipment. The core specimens were obtained at the measurement positions. An absorption test was performed for the core specimens, while the impact echo and dynamic modulus tests were performed for the upper and lower parts of the core specimens under dry or saturated conditions. A compressive strength test was also performed for the upper and lower parts of the core specimens.
RESULTS : The absorption coefficient, relative elastic modulus, relative dynamic modulus, and relative compressive strength worsened as the measurement position became closer to the spalling distress and top of the slab. The worse material properties were measured for the spalling with a higher severity. The moisture condition of the specimens scarcely affected the material properties.
CONCLUSIONS : The impact echo test results obtained at the field showed a high correlation with the results of the absorption, impact echo, dynamic modulus, and compressive strength tests performed in the laboratory. Accordingly, a quicker and a more convenient nondestructive soundness evaluation of concrete pavements is expected to be realized using the field impact echo test method.