ISSN: 0149-6123
Page Count: 9

Statistical Characteristics of New Pin Penetration Test
Carino, NJ
Research civil engineer and guest worker, Center for Building Technology, National Institute of Standards and Technology, MD

Tank, RC
Research civil engineer and guest worker, Center for Building Technology, National Institute of Standards and Technology, MD

Abstract

Researchers at the University of Saskatchewan have developed a new test for estimating the in-place strength of concrete. The method, known as the pin penetration test, involves driving a small pin into the concrete surface using a spring-loaded driver. The penetration of the pin creates a small indentation whose depth is measured. The pin penetration is inversely related to the strength of concrete. This paper provides information about the within-test variability of the method and about the correlation relationship between compressive strength and pin penetration. Test results show that a standard deviation with a value of about 0.015 in. (0.038 mm) describes the within-test variability. The correlation relationship is nonlinear for compressive strengths between 1000 and 5800 psi (6.9 to 40.0 MPa) and depends on the water-cement ratio of the concrete. For compressive strength less than about 4000 psi (27.6 MPa), the correlation relationship is not strongly dependent on water-cement ratio, and a straight line adequately represents the relationship. However, the correlation relationship obtained in this study differs from that reported by others.

Keywords:
compressive strength, concrete, correlation, in-place testing, penetration test, variability

Paper ID: CCA10110J
DOI: 10.1520/CCA10110J
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