Experimental studies of elastic wave propagation in high-strength mortar

A comprehensive test program on the behavior of high-strength mortar under different conditions has been performed by studying the propagation of ultrasonic waves (compressional and shear) through 2-in. (0.051 m) cubes. The increase of the ultrasonic wave velocities was monitored as a function of time. The attenuation of the ultrasonic waves under different conditions was analyzed. Special emphasis was given to the study of the effect of cracking on the ultrasonic velocities and attenuation of the mortar, including the development of anisotropic behavior once cracking had developed. The healing of the cracks over time was also analyzed, and it was shown that a substantial degree of healing can occur. The effects of changes in relative humidity and subzero temperatures on the seismic wave velocities were studied in detail.