Elastic and ElectroMagnetic Wave monitoring of early age TRC

The mechanical properties of Textile Reinforced Cementitious (TRC) composites have been extensively investigated in recent years. This material is constituted by a fine-grained cementitious matrix and a continuous textile reinforcement, a combination that has proven to be a lightweight, durable, and sustainable alternative for reinforced concrete. TRC is capable of generating curved slender components, offering the versatility to produce complex geometries not previously possible with reinforced concrete. The mechanical behavior and durability of these materials are highly affected by manufacturing and curing conditions. Non-Destructive Techniques (NDT’s) can provide a powerful reliable tool to monitor early age TRC without affecting nor compromising its properties. Along this manuscript, in order to provide an accurate assessment on the TRC mechanical and physical changes occurring during curing, Ultrasound Wave Reflection (UWR), Ultrasound Pulse Velocity (UPV) and Millimeter Wave (MMW) spectrometry are combined in an attempt to exploit the capabilities of elastic and electromagnetic waves for material characterization and monitoring. Experimental results evidence that UPV effectively monitors the development of stiffness in the material, while MMW spectrometry is more sensitive to evaporation of water and chemical reactions involved in the hydration of cement. Additionally, the applicability and resolution of these two contact and non-contact (US and MMW Spectrometry) techniques are discussed.