Acoustic emission characteristics of concrete-piles

Acoustic Emission (AE) characteristics due to microcracking are studied in full-scale prestressed concrete-piles. By applying AE techniques, fundamental study on the fracture mechanism of the piles under both cyclic and monotonic loads is made. The prestressed concrete-piles are subjected to bending and shear loads. Crack growth is monitored, and three-dimensional (3-D) AE source locations are conducted along with crack classification and crack orientation by SiGMA analysis. The results obtained are compared with those of the pile integrity test (PIT) and visual observation. To investigate AE characteristics of damaged piles, uni-axial load is applied to the damaged RC piles installed in an experimental pit of sand. AE is monitored directly in the RC piles. In addition, indirect monitoring is carried out by using a wave-guide nearby the pile. In both the direct and indirect monitorings, AE sources are located, applying one-dimensional source location. Locations estimated are compared with the real damaged zone. Finally, conditions of AE generation of the damaged RC piles are discussed with respect to crack width and crack orientation. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.