Is componential strength analysis of concrete possible?

Abstract

Classical tests of compressive strength performed on hydraulic or electromechanical machines are capable of assessing the total strength of concrete, but from the single value it is not possible to infer anything about the strength of concrete constituents (cement matrix, aggregates and the interfaces between them). For this reason it would be useful to have a complementary method with the capability to assess the strength of concrete components and to enrich information on the integrity of this composite material. A microscopy assessment of the topography of fracture surfaces seems to be one possible method of fulfilling this goal. The basic ideas of the method supported by experimental measurements are presented.