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Evaluating Compressive Strength with DIC

Compression Testing of Concrete

Concrete is the most widely used material in modern construction, and its compressive strength is a key property that determines its ability to withstand applied loads. This property plays a crucial role in ensuring the structural integrity and durability of buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure. Compressive strength represents concrete’s resistance to axial forces that apply pressure, making the material compress. Proper evaluation of this characteristic is essential to prevent failure and ensure long-term reliability.

Objective

The aim of this case study was to evaluate full-field displacement and strain data during a compressive strength test on concrete. Using Digital Image Correlation (DIC), the test provided detailed insights into strain distribution and crack propagation as the material was compressed until failure.

Description of the Case Study

A block-shaped concrete specimen was subjected to compressive loading until structural failure. The test was performed using a single 5 MP iDS camera capturing images at 75 fps to track the deformation process. DIC technology was used to map full-field strain distribution, allowing for an in-depth understanding of how the material responds under pressure.

Loading Sequence Visualization: The first image below captures the sequence of loading phases, showing the concrete specimen under increasing compression.

DIC Full-Field Analysis: The second image provides a DIC-based full-field overlay, revealing displacement, strain concentration, and crack initiation during the test.

Compressive strength test
Fig 1: Sequence of loading phases, showing the concrete specimen under increasing compression.
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Visual Results

Full-field strain mapping enabled the visualization of how stress was distributed across the surface of the specimen.

Compressive strength result
Fig 2: DIC-based full-field overlay, revealing displacement, strain concentration

Advantages of Using DIC for Compression Testing

Non-contact, full-field measurement of strain and displacement.

High precision in detecting deformation even before visible cracks appear.

Quantifiable strain distribution that enhances understanding of material behavior.

Post-processing capabilities, enabling further analysis and comparison.

This case study highlights the importance of Digital Image Correlation (DIC) in analyzing the compressive strength of concrete. Unlike traditional measurement methods, DIC provides detailed, full-field strain data, offering superior insights into how concrete behaves under compression. This approach is invaluable for optimizing material performance and ensuring structural reliability in real-world applications.

Learn more about the AMEE 2D or AMEE 2D VEX and its applications here.

For more information about AMEE 2D or AMEE 2D VEX, please Contact us through email info@mercury-dic.com.

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