An Evaluation of Concrete Compressive Strength Using Computer Tomography Scan Method

Compressive strength represents a basic standard by which the quality of concrete is assessed. However, in view of the inherent shortcomings of the compressive strength test, current trend is towards performance oriented test using Non Destructive Methods, NDT. This is a report on a research carried out on the assessment of concrete strengths using computer tomography (CT) scan method. First, a preliminary investigation of the various properties of the materials used for the production of concrete samples was carried out. Concrete samples were then prepared, cured and subjected to computer tomography (CT) scan test at the end of the following curing periods: 1, 3, 7, 14, 21, 28 and 56 days. Samples were then subjected to compressive strength test. Results showed compressive strength is related to the Hounsfield value by a correlation of 0.863. Correlation test, multiple regression analysis and graphs were used to analyze the results. Part of the conclusion drawn from the analysis is that CT scan is good in evaluating concrete strength. It was recommended that where CT scan is used, the following equation can be used to determine that compressive strength, y = 5.6 + 0.00711Xt.