Measurements of dynamic properties of concrete structures using flexural wave propagation characteristics

Flexural wave propagation characteristics influence the impact noise generation of concrete structures that are found in building floors, railroads, bridges, and many other engineering structures. The flexural vibration of the structure is affected by concrete dynamic properties. The purpose of this study is to measure the concrete dynamic characteristics using a wave propagation approach. The flexural wave speeds, bending stiffness and their loss factors were measured. The measured characteristics are essential for understanding sound radiation and vibration dissipation capabilities of the concrete structures. Various concrete beam structures were made and tested. The dynamic stiffness and loss factor were influenced by its components and showed frequency-dependent variation, especially for the measured loss factor.

Research highlights▶ The concrete dynamic characteristics were measured using the beam transfer function method. ▶ The flexural wave speeds, bending stiffness and their loss factors were measured. ▶ Various concrete beam structures were made and tested. ▶ The measured properties showed frequency-dependent variations. ▶ The dynamic stiffness and loss factor depended on the type of concrete.