Objective: Determine the 28-day compressive strength of your concrete samples and determine the modulus of elasticity and Poisson's ratio.
General Test procedure:
1. Initial Procedures
a. Remove four cylinder samples from curing tank and dry with a towel
b. Measure the length of each specimen in two locations
c. Measure the diameter of the specimen in two locations using a "pi" tape
2. Compressive Strength (ASTM C39)
a. Place concrete cylinder in compression testing machine with neoprene caps inplace. Be sure the compression machine is clean.
b. Start the data collection software to ensure you record your peak load/stress.
c. Start compression testing machine and load sample at specified load rate.
d. After sample breaks, record the peak load and determine the type of break.
e. Clean up sample and compression machine.
2. Modulus of Elasticity and Poisson's Ratio (ASTM C469)
a. After determining the compressive strength of your cylinders (you should leave one cylinder unbroken), place the compressometer on the remaining cylinder.
b. Place the cylinder in the compression testing machine as before.
c. Start the data collection software and load the sample to 40% of the compressive strength, disregard this data. Note the behavior of the gages during loading to ensure they are behaving properly.
d. Start the data collection software and load the sample to 40% of the compressive strength and save the data. Be sure to download the data for your analysis.
Deliverables:
1. Memo Report including: compressive strength, modulus of elasticity, and Poisson's ratio.