How Investigators Can Answer More Complex Questions About Assess Concrete Strength and Lessons to Draw from a Benchmark

Abstract

This benchmark aims to assess mean compressive strength at several scales and to identify the location and characteristics of possible weak areas in the structure. It concerns synthetic data simulated on a group of four concrete cylindrical structures of identical dimensions with different kinds of strength distribution, based on a real case study. After having received the test results corresponding to their request (non-destructive or destructive), all the experts have to analyze these data and assess the concrete properties and to localize possible weak areas. In addition, they have to define their assessment methodology, i.e. level of investigation, number, type and location of measurements. This study provides information about how the accuracy of the final estimates depend on choices done at the various steps of the assessment process, from the definition of the testing program to the final delivery of strength estimates.