Diagnostic Testing as a tool in Investigation of Concrete and Masonry Structures

Presented by:  Todd Allen
UCT Group LLC

Investigations of Concrete and Masonry structures often requires a multi-discipline diagnostic approach since one test cannot provide all the information needed for Engineers to evaluate the condition and develop an effective repair strategy. This approach consists of typical field visual observations followed by NDT and Laboratory Testing. The information found during the Diagnostic testing allows engineers to develop an effective and durable repair plan. This presentation will discuss: 

• Why and when Diagnostic Testing is needed
• Why and when Material Testing is needed
• Developing the testing program
• Testing Tools and methods (NDT, Load Testing, Masonry Joint load testing and Water Permeability of mortar)
• Why take cores samples
• Laboratory Testing and methods (Strength and bond testing, Reasons to use Petrography, Chemical Analysis)
  

Todd Allen is a Consultant to the Concrete and Masonry Industry, and is the President of UCT Group (Universal Construction Testing)  located in Chicago, IL.  Previously, he was President of Radarview-UCT for 18 years of which the Radarview portion was sold in 2020 to GPRS, Inc. His background includes 27 years in the application of various testing methods in the construction industry and is an honorably discharged veteran of the US Navy.  Mr. Allen is a published author in professional trade journals/magazines and has presented numerous times for engineering and trade associations. He currently serves as a voting member of ACI 228 (NDT) and past Co-chair of ICRI 210 Evaluation. His education includes a Degree in Marine Technology, Materials Evaluation from the College of Oceaneering/National University Polytechnic Institute, Los Angeles-1994; and Engineering coursework from the University of Houston-1988 to 1990.