Approaches for the generation of stress waves in concrete

This paper reviews several existing, as well as potential, stress-wave-generating techniques for concrete. The generating techniques under study include standard ultrasonic pulse generators, high-energy ultrasonic toneburst systems, and simple impact. In addition, the use of laser sources and ultrasonic lithotripters are proposed. The novelty of this review is that the methods are analyzed considering applications to existing concrete NDE methods. The strengths and weaknesses of each generation technique are discussed. Some of the methods are demonstrated through laboratory tests on a variety of specimen types. A description of each technique and conclusions concerning the appropriateness of each technique are also made.