Estudo da correlação entre resistência mecânica e velocidade ultrassônica para um material terroso

Abstract

This dissertation presents the studies carried out on the applicability of ultrasound as a non-destructive evaluation method of the structural conditions of earth structures designed to building rammed earth. To this purpose the ultrasound was defined as a proposal for utilization of a non-destructive method on the evaluation of the relation of earthy material mechanical resistance and the propagation of the ultrasonic velocity. This paper purpose was to check the existence of the co-relation between the resistance to the compression strength of an earthy material (soil) and the velocity of the ultrasonic wave, applying the ultrasound method. To accomplish the proposed objective, the work was developed strategicaly into two axis. One axis was engaged in doing geotechnical tests, such as: characterization, compacting and regular compression, in order to understand the material behavior. The other was designed to use the ultrasound to check the co-relation between the propagation of the ultrasonic velocity and the material resistance (tension versus deformation). The conclusion: there is strong relation between the rupture tension and the velocity of the ultrasonic wave propagation. May these studies carried out be the orientation elements for elaboration of a methodologic protocol able to evaluate the earth structures mechanical integrity through the ultrasound application.