Variation of Splitting Tensile Strength in Concrete (Indirect Tensile Methods)

Abstract

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Currently, one of the most widely used indirect methods for determining the tensile strength of concrete is the splitting tensile test, due to its ease of execution and reproducibility.

The objective of this research was to investigate the reliability of the test in relation to the variation of tensile strength. This work consisted of an experimental study on the splitting tensile behavior with respect to the following factors: age, moisture condition at the time of testing, and level of vibration.

In order to reach objective conclusions, a statistical study based on an analysis of variance (ANOVA) model of the results was carried out.

For molded concrete specimens, the only variable that significantly affected the strength was the age at the time of testing, specifically for those that had been kept in a curing chamber and then submerged in a water tank 48 hours prior to testing. For both ages, it was observed that variations in the specimen’s moisture condition at the time of testing did not necessarily result in changes in splitting tensile strength.

The behavior of core samples taken from hardened concrete was different. No clear trend of increase or decrease in splitting tensile strength was observed as any of the three studied factors were varied.