ASTM C1383-15(2022)
(Test Method)Standard Test Method for Measuring the P-Wave Speed and the Thickness of Concrete Plates Using the Impact-Echo Method
Standard Test Method for Measuring the P-Wave Speed and the Thickness of Concrete Plates Using the Impact-Echo Method
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This test method may be used as a substitute for, or in conjunction with, coring to determine the thickness of slabs, pavements, decks, walls, or other plate structures. There is a certain level of systematic error in the calculated thickness due to the discrete nature of the digital records that are used. The absolute systematic error depends on the plate thickness, the sampling interval, and the sampling period.
4.2 Because the wave speed can vary from point-to-point in the structure due to differences in concrete age or batch-to-batch variability, the wave speed is measured (Procedure A) at each point where a thickness determination (Procedure B) is required.
4.3 This test method is a pplicable to plate-like structures with lateral dimensions at least six times the thickness. These minimum lateral dimensions are necessary to prevent other modes3 of vibration from interfering with the identification of the thickness mode frequency in the amplitude spectrum. As explained in Note 12, the minimum lateral dimensions and acceptable sampling period are related.
4.4 The maximum and minimum thickness that can be measured is limited by the details of the testing apparatus (transducer response characteristics and the specific impactor). The limits shall be specified by manufacturer of the apparatus, and the apparatus shall not be used beyond these limits. If test equipment is assembled by the user, thickness limitations shall be established and documented.
4.5 This test method is not applicable to plate structures with overlays, such as a concrete bridge deck with an asphalt or portland cement concrete overlay. The method is based on the assumption that the concrete plate has the same P-wave speed throughout its depth.
4.6 Procedure A is performed on concrete that is air dry as high surface moisture content may affect the results.
4.7 Procedure B is applicable to a concrete plate resting on a subgrade of soil, gravel, permeable asphalt concrete, or lea...
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers procedures for determining the thickness of concrete slabs, pavements, bridge decks, walls, or other plate-like structure using the impact-echo method.
1.2 The following two procedures are covered in this test method:
1.2.1 Procedure A: P-Wave Speed Measurement—This procedure measures the time it takes for the P-wave generated by a short-duration, point impact to travel between two transducers positioned a known distance apart along the surface of a structure. The P-wave speed is calculated by dividing the distance between the two transducers by the travel time.
1.2.2 Procedure B: Impact-Echo Test—This procedure measures the frequency at which the P-wave generated by a short-duration, point impact is reflected between the parallel (opposite) surfaces of a plate. The thickness is calculated from this measured frequency and the P-wave speed obtained from Procedure A.
1.2.3 Unless specified otherwise, both Procedure A and Procedure B must be performed at each point where a thickness determination is made.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.
1.4 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes that provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the standard.
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendatio...
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This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: C1383 − 15 (Reapproved 2022)
Standard Test Method for
Measuring the P-Wave Speed and the Thickness of
Concrete Plates Using the Impact-Echo Method
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C1383; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope* ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
1.1 This test method covers procedures for determining the
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
thickness of concrete slabs, pavements, bridge decks, walls, or
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
other plate-like structure using the impact-echo method.
1.2 The following two procedures are covered in this test 2. Referenced Documents
method: 2
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.2.1 Procedure A: P-Wave Speed Measurement—This pro-
C125 Terminology Relating to Concrete and Concrete Ag-
cedure measures the time it takes for the P-wave generated by
gregates
a short-duration, point impact to travel between two transduc-
C597 Test Method for Pulse Velocity Through Concrete
ers positioned a known distance apart along the surface of a
E1316 Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
structure. The P-wave speed is calculated by dividing the
distance between the two transducers by the travel time.
3. Terminology
1.2.2 Procedure B: Impact-Echo Test—This procedure mea-
3.1 Definitions:
sures the frequency at which the P-wave generated by a
3.1.1 For definitions of terms used in this test method, refer
short-duration, point impact is reflected between the parallel
to Terminology C125 and Terminology E1316.
(opposite) surfaces of a plate. The thickness is calculated from
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
this measured frequency and the P-wave speed obtained from
3.2.1 acoustic impedance, n—the product of P-wave speed
Procedure A.
and density that is used in computations of characteristics of
1.2.3 Unless specified otherwise, both Procedure A and
stress wave reflection at boundaries.
ProcedureBmustbeperformedateachpointwhereathickness
3.2.2 P-wave, n—the dilatational (longitudinal or primary)
determination is made.
stress wave that causes particle displacement parallel to the
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
direction of wave propagation: this wave produces normal
standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
stresses (tensile or compressive) as it propagates.
standard.
3.2.3 P-wave speed, n—the speed with which the P-wave
1.4 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes
propagates through a semi-infinite solid.
that provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes
3.2.3.1 Discussion—The P-wave speed is the same as the
(excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered
compressional pulse velocity measured according to Test
as requirements of the standard.
Method C597.
3,4
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
3.2.4 apparent P-wave speed in a plate , n—a wave speed
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
that is equal to 0.96 of the P-wave speed:
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
C 5 0.96 C (1)
p, plate p
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor- 2
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard- contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website.
1 3
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C09 on Sansalone, M. and Streett, W.B., Impact-Echo: Nondestructive Evaluation of
Concrete and ConcreteAggregates and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee Concrete and Masonry, Bullbrier Press, Ithaca, NY and Jersey Shore, PA, 1997.
C09.64 on Nondestructive and In-Place Testing. Sansalone, M., Lin, J. M., and Streett, W. B., “A Procedure for Determining
Current edition approved June 1, 2022. Published June 2022. Originally P-wave Speed in Concrete for Use in Impact-Echo Testing Using P-wave Speed
approved in 1998. Last previous edition approved in 2015 as C1383 – 15. DOI: MeasurementTechnique,” ACI Journal,Vol. 94, No. 6, November–December 1997,
10.1520/C1383-15R22. pp. 531–539.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C1383 − 15 (2022)
where: the assumption that the concrete plate has the same P-wave
speed throughout its depth.
C = the apparent P-wave speed in a plate, m/s, and
p, plate
C = the P-wave speed in concrete that is obtained from
p 4.6 Procedure A is performed on concrete that is air dry as
Procedure A, m/s.
high surface moisture content may affect the results.
4.7 Procedure B is applicable to a concrete plate resting on
3.2.4.1 Discussion—This wave speed is used in thickness
a subgrade of soil, gravel, permeable asphalt concrete, or lean
calculations in impact-echo measurements on plates. The
portland cement concrete provided there is sufficient difference
P-wave speed measured using Procedure A is converted to the
in acoustic impedance between the concrete and subgrade or
apparent P-wave speed in a plate that is used to calculate the
there are enough air voids at the interface to produce measur-
plate thickness by the following equation:
able reflections. If these conditions are not satisfied, the
C
p, plate
waveformwillbeoflowamplitudeandtheamplitudespectrum
T 5 (2)
2f
will not include a dominant peak at the frequency correspond-
where: ing to the thickness (Eq 2). If the interface between the
concrete and subgrade is rough, the amplitude spectrum will
T = the thickness of the plate, m, and
have a rounded peak instead of a sharp peak associated with a
f = the frequency of the P-wave thickness mode of the plate
flat surface.
obtained from the amplitude spectrum, Hz.
4.8 The procedures described are not influenced by traffic
If the alternative procedure in 9.6 is used to determine the
noise or low frequency structural vibrations set up by normal
apparent P-wave speed, the 0.96 factor is not applied to the
movement of traffic across a structure.
determined P-wave speed for calculating the thickness.
4.9 The procedures are not applicable in the presence of
3.2.5 surface wave, n—a stress wave in which the particle
mechanical noise created by equipment impacting (jack
motion is elliptical and the amplitude of particle motion
hammers, sounding with a hammer, mechanical sweepers, and
decreases rapidly with depth: also known as Rayleigh wave (or
so forth) on the structure.
R-wave).
4.10 Procedure A is not applicable in the presence of high
amplitude electrical noise, such as may produced by a genera-
4. Significance and Use
tor or some other source, that is transmitted to the data-
4.1 This test method may be used as a substitute for, or in acquisition system.
conjunction with, coring to determine the thickness of slabs,
pavements, decks, walls, or other plate structures. There is a
PROCEDURE A—P-WAVE SPEED MEASUREMENT
certain level of systematic error in the calculated thickness due
to the discrete nature of the digital records that are used. The
5. Summary of Procedure
absolute systematic error depends on the plate thickness, the
5.1 An impact on the concrete surface is used to generate
sampling interval, and the sampling period.
transient stress waves. These waves propagate along the
4.2 Because the wave speed can vary from point-to-point in
surface of the concrete past two transducers, placed on a line
the structure due to differences in concrete age or batch-to-
through the impact point and at a known distance apart.
batch variability, the wave speed is measured (ProcedureA) at
5.2 The time difference between the arrival of the P-wave
each point where a thickness determination (Procedure B) is
(stress wave with highest speed) at each transducer is used to
required.
determine the P-wave speed by dividing the time difference
(travel time) by the known distance between the transducers.
4.3 This test method is a pplicable to plate-like structures
with lateral dimensions at least six times the thickness. These
6. Apparatus
minimum lateral dimensions are necessary to prevent other
modes of vibration from interfering with the identification of
6.1 Impactor—The impactor shall be spherical or spheri-
the thickness mode frequency in the amplitude spectrum. As cally tipped. It shall produce an impact duration of 30 µs 6 10
explained in Note 12, the minimum lateral dimensions and
µs with sufficient energy to produce surface displacements due
acceptable sampling period are related. to the P-wave that can be recorded by the two transducers (see
Note 1). The impactor shall be positioned to strike on the
4.4 The maximum and minimum thickness that can be
centerline passing through the two transducers at a distance of
measured is limited by the details of the testing apparatus
150 mm 6 10 mm from the first transducer.
(transducer response characteristics and the specific impactor).
The limits shall be specified by manufacturer of the apparatus, NOTE 1—Hardened steel balls ranging from 5 mm to 8 mm in diameter
and attached to steel spring rods have been found to produce suitable
and the apparatus shall not be used beyond these limits. If test
impacts.
equipment is assembled by the user, thickness limitations shall
6.2 Transducers—Two broadband transducers that respond
be established and documented.
to displacements normal to the surface.These transducers must
4.5 This test method is not applicable to plate structures
with overlays, such as a concrete bridge deck with an asphalt
or portland cement concrete overlay. The method is based on Suitable apparatus is available commercially.
C1383 − 15 (2022)
be capable of detecting the small displacements that corre- 6.5 Cables and Connectors—To connect the transducers to
spond to the arrival of the impact-generated P-wave traveling the data acquisition system. Connectors shall be high quality
along the surface.Asmall contact area between the piezoelec- and tightly connected to the cables. The cables shall be
tric element and the concrete surface is required to record shielded to reduce electrical noise.
accuratelythearrivaloftheP-wave(seeNote2).Useasuitable
6.6 Functionality Check Apparatus—Apparatus to verify
material to couple the transducer to the concrete.
that all components of test system are functioning properly
prior to the start of testing.
NOTE 2—Acommercially available displacement transducer made from
a conical piezoelectric element with a tip diameter of 1.5 mm and the NOTE 6—This may include a reference test specimen whose impact
larger end attached to a brass backing block has been found suitable. A response has been determined and can be compared with the output of the
lead sheet approximately 0.25 mm thick is a suitable coupling material for test system.
such a transducer.
7. Preparation of Test Surface
6.2.1 Acceptable transducers shall be previously docu-
mentedtoproduceaccurateresultsforplatethicknessessimilar
7.1 The test surface shall be dry. Remove dirt and debris
to those being measured by this test method. from the surface where the P-wave speed is to determined.
6.3 Spacer Device—A spacer device shall be provided to
7.2 If the test surface is extremely rough so that it is difficult
hold the transducers a fixed distance apart. It shall not interfere
to achieve good contact between the transducer tips and the
with the ability of the transducers to measure surface displace-
concrete, grind the surface so that good contact is achieved.
ment. It shall be manufactured to minimize the possibility of
Remove loose material prior to coupling the transducers to the
P-wave transmission through it so as to prevent interference surface.
with measurement of the P-wave travel time. The transducer
NOTE 7—Surface roughness may be a problem when testing highway
tipsshallbeplacedabout300mmapart.Measureandrecordto
pavements with roughly textured or grooved surfaces. On new
the nearest 1 mm the actual distance between the centers of the
construction, curing compounds may have to be removed at test locations
to permit proper coupling of the transducers and to obtain short duration
transducer tips.
impacts.
NOTE 3—The accuracy of the measurement is affected if the distance
between the tips of the two transducers is not known accurately. The
8. Procedure
materials and design of the spacer device should be chosen to minimize
the change in separation of the transducers due to changes in temperature. 8.1 Fig.1showsaschematicofthetestset-upforProcedure
A.
6.4 Data-Acquisition System—Hardware and software for
acquiring, recording, and processing the output of the two
8.2 Assemble the apparatus (transducers, spacer device,
transducers. This system can be a portable computer with a
impactor). Verify that the test system is functioning properly.
two-channel data-acquisition card, or it can be a portable
Position the apparatus on the concrete surface, and position the
two-channel waveform analyzer.
impactor to strike on the line passing through the two trans-
6.4.1 The sampling frequency for each channel shall be
ducers and at a distance of 150 mm 6 10 mm from the first
500 kHz or higher (sampling interval of 2 µs or less). The
(triggering) transducer. If testing on a grooved surface, test
system shall be capable of triggering on the signal from one of
parallel to the grooves, so that the line through the transducers
the recording channels.
and the impactor does not cross a groove. If cracks are present,
6.4.2 The voltage range and voltage resolution of the data
position the apparatus so that no cracks intersect the line
acquisition system shall be matched with the sensitivity of the
passing through the impact point and the two transducers.
transducers so that the arrival of the P-wave is determined
8.3 Ready the data-acquisition system with correct data
accurately.
acquisition parameters (sampling frequency, voltage range,
NOTE 4—For example, a computer data acquisition card with a volt
...
NOTICE: This standard has either been superseded and replaced by a new version or withdrawn.
Contact ASTM International (www.astm.org) for the latest information
Designation: C1383 − 15 (Reapproved 2022)
Standard Test Method for
Measuring the P-Wave Speed and the Thickness of
Concrete Plates Using the Impact-Echo Method
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C1383; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope* ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
1.1 This test method covers procedures for determining the
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
thickness of concrete slabs, pavements, bridge decks, walls, or
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
other plate-like structure using the impact-echo method.
1.2 The following two procedures are covered in this test
2. Referenced Documents
method: 2
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.2.1 Procedure A: P-Wave Speed Measurement—This pro-
C125 Terminology Relating to Concrete and Concrete Ag-
cedure measures the time it takes for the P-wave generated by
gregates
a short-duration, point impact to travel between two transduc-
C597 Test Method for Pulse Velocity Through Concrete
ers positioned a known distance apart along the surface of a
E1316 Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
structure. The P-wave speed is calculated by dividing the
distance between the two transducers by the travel time.
3. Terminology
1.2.2 Procedure B: Impact-Echo Test—This procedure mea-
3.1 Definitions:
sures the frequency at which the P-wave generated by a
3.1.1 For definitions of terms used in this test method, refer
short-duration, point impact is reflected between the parallel
to Terminology C125 and Terminology E1316.
(opposite) surfaces of a plate. The thickness is calculated from
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
this measured frequency and the P-wave speed obtained from
3.2.1 acoustic impedance, n—the product of P-wave speed
Procedure A.
and density that is used in computations of characteristics of
1.2.3 Unless specified otherwise, both Procedure A and
stress wave reflection at boundaries.
Procedure B must be performed at each point where a thickness
3.2.2 P-wave, n—the dilatational (longitudinal or primary)
determination is made.
stress wave that causes particle displacement parallel to the
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
direction of wave propagation: this wave produces normal
standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
stresses (tensile or compressive) as it propagates.
standard.
3.2.3 P-wave speed, n—the speed with which the P-wave
1.4 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes
propagates through a semi-infinite solid.
that provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes
3.2.3.1 Discussion—The P-wave speed is the same as the
(excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered
compressional pulse velocity measured according to Test
as requirements of the standard.
Method C597.
3,4
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
3.2.4 apparent P-wave speed in a plate , n—a wave speed
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
that is equal to 0.96 of the P-wave speed:
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
C 5 0.96 C (1)
p, plate p
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor- 2
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard- contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website.
1 3
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C09 on Sansalone, M. and Streett, W.B., Impact-Echo: Nondestructive Evaluation of
Concrete and Concrete Aggregates and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee Concrete and Masonry, Bullbrier Press, Ithaca, NY and Jersey Shore, PA, 1997.
C09.64 on Nondestructive and In-Place Testing. Sansalone, M., Lin, J. M., and Streett, W. B., “A Procedure for Determining
Current edition approved June 1, 2022. Published June 2022. Originally P-wave Speed in Concrete for Use in Impact-Echo Testing Using P-wave Speed
approved in 1998. Last previous edition approved in 2015 as C1383 – 15. DOI: Measurement Technique,” ACI Journal, Vol. 94, No. 6, November–December 1997,
10.1520/C1383-15R22. pp. 531–539.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C1383 − 15 (2022)
where: the assumption that the concrete plate has the same P-wave
speed throughout its depth.
C = the apparent P-wave speed in a plate, m/s, and
p, plate
C = the P-wave speed in concrete that is obtained from
p
4.6 Procedure A is performed on concrete that is air dry as
Procedure A, m/s.
high surface moisture content may affect the results.
4.7 Procedure B is applicable to a concrete plate resting on
3.2.4.1 Discussion—This wave speed is used in thickness
a subgrade of soil, gravel, permeable asphalt concrete, or lean
calculations in impact-echo measurements on plates. The
portland cement concrete provided there is sufficient difference
P-wave speed measured using Procedure A is converted to the
in acoustic impedance between the concrete and subgrade or
apparent P-wave speed in a plate that is used to calculate the
there are enough air voids at the interface to produce measur-
plate thickness by the following equation:
able reflections. If these conditions are not satisfied, the
C
p, plate
waveform will be of low amplitude and the amplitude spectrum
T 5 (2)
2f
will not include a dominant peak at the frequency correspond-
where: ing to the thickness (Eq 2). If the interface between the
concrete and subgrade is rough, the amplitude spectrum will
T = the thickness of the plate, m, and
have a rounded peak instead of a sharp peak associated with a
f = the frequency of the P-wave thickness mode of the plate
flat surface.
obtained from the amplitude spectrum, Hz.
4.8 The procedures described are not influenced by traffic
If the alternative procedure in 9.6 is used to determine the
noise or low frequency structural vibrations set up by normal
apparent P-wave speed, the 0.96 factor is not applied to the
movement of traffic across a structure.
determined P-wave speed for calculating the thickness.
4.9 The procedures are not applicable in the presence of
3.2.5 surface wave, n—a stress wave in which the particle
mechanical noise created by equipment impacting (jack
motion is elliptical and the amplitude of particle motion
hammers, sounding with a hammer, mechanical sweepers, and
decreases rapidly with depth: also known as Rayleigh wave (or
so forth) on the structure.
R-wave).
4.10 Procedure A is not applicable in the presence of high
amplitude electrical noise, such as may produced by a genera-
4. Significance and Use
tor or some other source, that is transmitted to the data-
acquisition system.
4.1 This test method may be used as a substitute for, or in
conjunction with, coring to determine the thickness of slabs,
pavements, decks, walls, or other plate structures. There is a
PROCEDURE A—P-WAVE SPEED MEASUREMENT
certain level of systematic error in the calculated thickness due
to the discrete nature of the digital records that are used. The
5. Summary of Procedure
absolute systematic error depends on the plate thickness, the
5.1 An impact on the concrete surface is used to generate
sampling interval, and the sampling period.
transient stress waves. These waves propagate along the
4.2 Because the wave speed can vary from point-to-point in
surface of the concrete past two transducers, placed on a line
the structure due to differences in concrete age or batch-to-
through the impact point and at a known distance apart.
batch variability, the wave speed is measured (Procedure A) at
5.2 The time difference between the arrival of the P-wave
each point where a thickness determination (Procedure B) is
(stress wave with highest speed) at each transducer is used to
required.
determine the P-wave speed by dividing the time difference
4.3 This test method is a pplicable to plate-like structures (travel time) by the known distance between the transducers.
with lateral dimensions at least six times the thickness. These
6. Apparatus
minimum lateral dimensions are necessary to prevent other
modes of vibration from interfering with the identification of
6.1 Impactor—The impactor shall be spherical or spheri-
the thickness mode frequency in the amplitude spectrum. As
cally tipped. It shall produce an impact duration of 30 µs 6 10
explained in Note 12, the minimum lateral dimensions and µs with sufficient energy to produce surface displacements due
acceptable sampling period are related.
to the P-wave that can be recorded by the two transducers (see
Note 1). The impactor shall be positioned to strike on the
4.4 The maximum and minimum thickness that can be
centerline passing through the two transducers at a distance of
measured is limited by the details of the testing apparatus
150 mm 6 10 mm from the first transducer.
(transducer response characteristics and the specific impactor).
The limits shall be specified by manufacturer of the apparatus, NOTE 1—Hardened steel balls ranging from 5 mm to 8 mm in diameter
and attached to steel spring rods have been found to produce suitable
and the apparatus shall not be used beyond these limits. If test
impacts.
equipment is assembled by the user, thickness limitations shall
6.2 Transducers—Two broadband transducers that respond
be established and documented.
to displacements normal to the surface. These transducers must
4.5 This test method is not applicable to plate structures
with overlays, such as a concrete bridge deck with an asphalt
or portland cement concrete overlay. The method is based on Suitable apparatus is available commercially.
C1383 − 15 (2022)
be capable of detecting the small displacements that corre- 6.5 Cables and Connectors—To connect the transducers to
spond to the arrival of the impact-generated P-wave traveling the data acquisition system. Connectors shall be high quality
along the surface. A small contact area between the piezoelec- and tightly connected to the cables. The cables shall be
tric element and the concrete surface is required to record shielded to reduce electrical noise.
accurately the arrival of the P-wave (see Note 2). Use a suitable
6.6 Functionality Check Apparatus—Apparatus to verify
material to couple the transducer to the concrete.
that all components of test system are functioning properly
prior to the start of testing.
NOTE 2—A commercially available displacement transducer made from
a conical piezoelectric element with a tip diameter of 1.5 mm and the NOTE 6—This may include a reference test specimen whose impact
larger end attached to a brass backing block has been found suitable. A response has been determined and can be compared with the output of the
lead sheet approximately 0.25 mm thick is a suitable coupling material for test system.
such a transducer.
7. Preparation of Test Surface
6.2.1 Acceptable transducers shall be previously docu-
mented to produce accurate results for plate thicknesses similar 7.1 The test surface shall be dry. Remove dirt and debris
to those being measured by this test method.
from the surface where the P-wave speed is to determined.
6.3 Spacer Device—A spacer device shall be provided to
7.2 If the test surface is extremely rough so that it is difficult
hold the transducers a fixed distance apart. It shall not interfere
to achieve good contact between the transducer tips and the
with the ability of the transducers to measure surface displace-
concrete, grind the surface so that good contact is achieved.
ment. It shall be manufactured to minimize the possibility of Remove loose material prior to coupling the transducers to the
P-wave transmission through it so as to prevent interference
surface.
with measurement of the P-wave travel time. The transducer
NOTE 7—Surface roughness may be a problem when testing highway
tips shall be placed about 300 mm apart. Measure and record to
pavements with roughly textured or grooved surfaces. On new
the nearest 1 mm the actual distance between the centers of the
construction, curing compounds may have to be removed at test locations
transducer tips. to permit proper coupling of the transducers and to obtain short duration
impacts.
NOTE 3—The accuracy of the measurement is affected if the distance
between the tips of the two transducers is not known accurately. The
8. Procedure
materials and design of the spacer device should be chosen to minimize
the change in separation of the transducers due to changes in temperature. 8.1 Fig. 1 shows a schematic of the test set-up for Procedure
A.
6.4 Data-Acquisition System—Hardware and software for
acquiring, recording, and processing the output of the two
8.2 Assemble the apparatus (transducers, spacer device,
transducers. This system can be a portable computer with a
impactor). Verify that the test system is functioning properly.
two-channel data-acquisition card, or it can be a portable
Position the apparatus on the concrete surface, and position the
two-channel waveform analyzer.
impactor to strike on the line passing through the two trans-
6.4.1 The sampling frequency for each channel shall be
ducers and at a distance of 150 mm 6 10 mm from the first
500 kHz or higher (sampling interval of 2 µs or less). The
(triggering) transducer. If testing on a grooved surface, test
system shall be capable of triggering on the signal from one of
parallel to the grooves, so that the line through the transducers
the recording channels.
and the impactor does not cross a groove. If cracks are present,
6.4.2 The voltage range and voltage resolution of the data
position the apparatus so that no cracks intersect the line
acquisition system shall be matched with the sensitivity of the
passing through the impact point and the two transducers.
transducers so that the arrival of the P-wave is determined
8.3 Ready the data-acquisition system with correct data
accurately.
acquisition parameters (sampling frequency, voltage range,
NOTE 4—For example, a computer data acquisition card with a voltage triggering level, delay, and so forth).
range of 62.5 V and 12-bi
...
This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: C1383 − 15 C1383 − 15 (Reapproved 2022)
Standard Test Method for
Measuring the P-Wave Speed and the Thickness of
Concrete Plates Using the Impact-Echo Method
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C1383; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope*
1.1 This test method covers procedures for determining the thickness of concrete slabs, pavements, bridge decks, walls, or other
plate-like structure using the impact-echo method.
1.2 The following two procedures are covered in this test method:
1.2.1 Procedure A: P-Wave Speed Measurement—This procedure measures the time it takes for the P-wave generated by a
short-duration, point impact to travel between two transducers positioned a known distance apart along the surface of a structure.
The P-wave speed is calculated by dividing the distance between the two transducers by the travel time.
1.2.2 Procedure B: Impact-Echo Test—This procedure measures the frequency at which the P-wave generated by a short-duration,
point impact is reflected between the parallel (opposite) surfaces of a plate. The thickness is calculated from this measured
frequency and the P-wave speed obtained from Procedure A.
1.2.3 Unless specified otherwise, both Procedure A and Procedure B must be performed at each point where a thickness
determination is made.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.
1.4 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes that provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes
(excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the standard.
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C09 on Concrete and Concrete Aggregates and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C09.64 on
Nondestructive and In-Place Testing.
Current edition approved June 15, 2015June 1, 2022. Published September 2015June 2022. Originally approved in 1998. Last previous edition approved in 20102015 as
C1383 – 04 (2010).C1383 – 15. DOI: 10.1520/C1383-15.10.1520/C1383-15R22.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C1383 − 15 (2022)
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
C125 Terminology Relating to Concrete and Concrete Aggregates
C597 Test Method for Pulse Velocity Through Concrete
E1316 Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 For definitions of terms used in this test method, refer to Terminology C125 and Terminology E1316.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 acoustic impedance, n—the product of P-wave speed and density that is used in computations of characteristics of stress
wave reflection at boundaries.
3.2.2 P-wave, n—the dilatational (longitudinal or primary) stress wave that causes particle displacement parallel to the direction
of wave propagation: this wave produces normal stresses (tensile or compressive) as it propagates.
3.2.3 P-wave speed, n—the speed with which the P-wave propagates through a semi-infinite solid.
3.2.3.1 Discussion—
The P-wave speed is the same as the compressional pulse velocity measured according to Test Method C597.
3,4
3.2.4 apparent P-wave speed in a plate , n—a wave speed that is equal to 0.96 of the P-wave speed:
C 5 0.96 C (1)
p, plate p
where:
C = the apparent P-wave speed in a plate, m/s, and
p, plate
C = the P-wave speed in concrete that is obtained from Procedure A, m/s.
p
3.2.4.1 Discussion—
This wave speed is used in thickness calculations in impact-echo measurements on plates. The P-wave speed measured using
Procedure A is converted to the apparent P-wave speed in a plate that is used to calculate the plate thickness by the following
equation:
C
p, plate
T 5 (2)
2f
where:
T = the thickness of the plate, m, and
f = the frequency of the P-wave thickness mode of the plate obtained from the amplitude spectrum, Hz.
If the alternative procedure in 9.6 is used to determine the apparent P-wave speed, the 0.96 factor is not applied to the determined
P-wave speed for calculating the thickness.
3.2.5 surface wave, n—a stress wave in which the particle motion is elliptical and the amplitude of particle motion decreases
rapidly with depth: also known as Rayleigh wave (or R-wave).
4. Significance and Use
4.1 This test method may be used as a substitute for, or in conjunction with, coring to determine the thickness of slabs, pavements,
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Sansalone, M. and Streett, W.B., Impact-Echo: Nondestructive Evaluation of Concrete and Masonry, Bullbrier Press, Ithaca, NY and Jersey Shore, PA, 1997.
Sansalone, M., Lin, J. M., and Streett, W. B., “A Procedure for Determining P-wave Speed in Concrete for Use in Impact-Echo Testing Using P-wave Speed Measurement
Technique,” ACI Journal, Vol. 94, No. 6, November–December 1997, pp. 531–539.
C1383 − 15 (2022)
decks, walls, or other plate structures. There is a certain level of systematic error in the calculated thickness due to the discrete
nature of the digital records that are used. The absolute systematic error depends on the plate thickness, the sampling interval, and
the sampling period.
4.2 Because the wave speed can vary from point-to-point in the structure due to differences in concrete age or batch-to-batch
variability, the wave speed is measured (Procedure A) at each point where a thickness determination (Procedure B) is required.
4.3 This test method is a pplicable to plate-like structures with lateral dimensions at least six times the thickness. These minimum
lateral dimensions are necessary to prevent other modes of vibration from interfering with the identification of the thickness mode
frequency in the amplitude spectrum. As explained in Note 12, the minimum lateral dimensions and acceptable sampling period
are related.
4.4 The maximum and minimum thickness that can be measured is limited by the details of the testing apparatus (transducer
response characteristics and the specific impactor). The limits shall be specified by manufacturer of the apparatus, and the apparatus
shall not be used beyond these limits. If test equipment is assembled by the user, thickness limitations shall be established and
documented.
4.5 This test method is not applicable to plate structures with overlays, such as a concrete bridge deck with an asphalt or portland
cement concrete overlay. The method is based on the assumption that the concrete plate has the same P-wave speed throughout
its depth.
4.6 Procedure A is performed on concrete that is air dry as high surface moisture content may affect the results.
4.7 Procedure B is applicable to a concrete plate resting on a subgrade of soil, gravel, permeable asphalt concrete, or lean portland
cement concrete provided there is sufficient difference in acoustic impedance between the concrete and subgrade or there are
enough air voids at the interface to produce measurable reflections. If these conditions are not satisfied, the waveform will be of
low amplitude and the amplitude spectrum will not include a dominant peak at the frequency corresponding to the thickness (Eq
2). If the interface between the concrete and subgrade is rough, the amplitude spectrum will have a rounded peak instead of a sharp
peak associated with a flat surface.
4.8 The procedures described are not influenced by traffic noise or low frequency structural vibrations set up by normal movement
of traffic across a structure.
4.9 The procedures are not applicable in the presence of mechanical noise created by equipment impacting (jack hammers,
sounding with a hammer, mechanical sweepers, and so forth) on the structure.
4.10 Procedure A is not applicable in the presence of high amplitude electrical noise, such as may produced by a generator or some
other source, that is transmitted to the data-acquisition system.
PROCEDURE A—P-WAVE SPEED MEASUREMENT
5. Summary of Procedure
5.1 An impact on the concrete surface is used to generate transient stress waves. These waves propagate along the surface of the
concrete past two transducers, placed on a line through the impact point and at a known distance apart.
5.2 The time difference between the arrival of the P-wave (stress wave with highest speed) at each transducer is used to determine
the P-wave speed by dividing the time difference (travel time) by the known distance between the transducers.
6. Apparatus
6.1 Impactor—The impactor shall be spherical or spherically tipped. It shall produce an impact duration of 30 μs 6 10 μs with
Suitable apparatus is available commercially.
C1383 − 15 (2022)
sufficient energy to produce surface displacements due to the P-wave that can be recorded by the two transducers (see Note 1).
The impactor shall be positioned to strike on the centerline passing through the two transducers at a distance of 150150 mm 6
10 mm from the first transducer.
NOTE 1—Hardened steel balls ranging from 55 mm to 8 mm in diameter and attached to steel spring rods have been found to produce suitable impacts.
6.2 Transducers—Two broadband transducers that respond to displacements normal to the surface. These transducers must be
capable of detecting the small displacements that correspond to the arrival of the impact-generated P-wave traveling along the
surface. A small contact area between the piezoelectric element and the concrete surface is required to record accurately the arrival
of the P-wave (see Note 2). Use a suitable material to couple the transducer to the concrete.
NOTE 2—A commercially available displacement transducer made from a conical piezoelectric element with a tip diameter of 1.5 mm and the larger end
attached to a brass backing block has been found suitable. A lead sheet approximately 0.25 mm thick is a suitable coupling material for such a transducer.
6.2.1 Acceptable transducers shall be previously documented to produce accurate results for plate thicknesses similar to those
being measured by this test method.
6.3 Spacer Device—A spacer device shall be provided to hold the transducers a fixed distance apart. It shall not interfere with the
ability of the transducers to measure surface displacement. It shall be manufactured to minimize the possibility of P-wave
transmission through it so as to prevent interference with measurement of the P-wave travel time. The transducer tips shall be
placed about 300 mm apart. Measure and record to the nearest 1 mm the actual distance between the centers of the transducer tips.
NOTE 3—The accuracy of the measurement is affected if the distance between the tips of the two transducers is not known accurately. The materials and
design of the spacer device should be chosen to minimize the change in separation of the transducers due to changes in temperature.
6.4 Data-Acquisition System—Hardware and software for acquiring, recording, and processing the output of the two transducers.
This system can be a portable computer with a two-channel data-acquisition card, or it can be a portable two-channel waveform
analyzer.
6.4.1 The sampling frequency for each channel shall be 500 kHz or higher (sampling interval of 2 μs or less). The system shall
be capable of triggering on the signal from one of the recording channels.
6.4.2 The voltage range and voltage resolution of the data acquisition system shall be matched with the sensitivity of the
transducers so that the arrival of the P-wave is determined accurately.
NOTE 4—For example, a computer data acquisition card with a voltage range of 62.5 V and 12-bit resolution has been found to be suitable for the
transducer described in Note 2.
6.4.3 The display system shall include cursors, including a corresponding readout of time and voltage, that can be positioned at
the point in each waveform corresponding to the P-wave arrival.
6.4.4 The data-acquisition system shall be operated by a power source that does not produce electrical noise detectable by the
transducers and data acquisition system when the system is set at the voltage sensitivity required to detect the arrivals of the
P-wave.
NOTE 5—Battery-powered data acquisition systems have been found suitable.
6.5 Cables and Connectors—To connect the transducers to the data acquisition system. Connectors shall be high quality and
tightly connected to the cables. The cables shall be shielded to reduce electrical noise.
6.6 Functionality Check Apparatus—Apparatus to verify that all components of test system are functioning properly prior to the
start of testing.
Proctor, T.M., Jr., “Some Details on the NBS Conical Transducer,” J. of Acoustic Emission, Vol 1, No. 3, pp. 173–178. Proctor, T.M., Jr., “Some Details on the NBS
Conical Transducer,” J. of Acoustic Emission, Vol 1, No. 3, pp. 173–178.
C1383 − 15 (2022)
NOTE 6—This may include a reference test specimen whose impact response has been determined and can be compared with the output of the test system.
7. Preparation of Test Surface
7.1 The test surface shall be dry. Remove dirt and debris from the surface where the P-wave speed is to determined.
7.2 If the test surface is extremely rough so that it is diffi
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