3.7. Calculation

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define compressive strength in concrete.

   Hint

   Think about what happens when you press on a concrete block.

2. 2.

   What type of loading is used in the flexural strength test?

   Hint

   Think about how force can be distributed over a beam.

3. 3.

   What is the main purpose of a compressive strength test?

   • To evaluate tensile strength
   • To find the maximum load before failure
   • To measure bond strength

   Hint

   Consider what property the test is measuring.

4. 4.

   True or False: The flexural strength test is only applicable for beams.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about where bending might occur in structural elements.

5. 5.

   If a cylinder with a diameter of 150 mm and a length of 300 mm breaks under a load of 75 kN, calculate the split tensile strength.

   Hint

   Ensure your units are consistent when plugging values into the formula.

6. 6.

   During a bond strength test, a steel bar with a diameter of 12 mm is subjected to a maximum load of 50 kN. Calculate the average bond stress.

   Hint

   Carefully calculate the area using the diameter of the bar.