Ultrasonic Techniques for Determination and Monitoring Various Properties of Cementitious Materials at Early Ages

Abstract

Ultrasonic techniques have been developed worldwide aimed to determine and monitor various important properties of cement-based materials. In recent years, advances in computer and experimental equipment have allowed the development of advanced ultrasonic systems. This chapter describes principles of determination of various properties of cement-based materials using ultrasonic techniques. Advantages and limitations of these techniques are briefly presented and discussed. State-of-the-art form of the chapter gives other researchers a comprehensive overview of the developed ultrasonic procedures. Due to their clear physical basis, accuracy, and ease of use, ultrasonic techniques have a great potential to soon become standard testing techniques for determination of setting and other properties of fresh and early-age cement-based materials. The first steps in this direction have already been performed.