Impact Echo Testing
Slab Delamination and Internal Void Detection
Overview
Impact echo testing uses short-duration mechanical impacts to generate stress waves that propagate through concrete and reflect from internal interfaces. Frequency analysis identifies the depth and nature of reflecting interfaces — delaminations, voids, honeycombing, and the far surface.
The technique is particularly effective for assessing bridge decks, car park slabs, and building floor slabs where delamination caused by corrosion-induced expansion is the critical defect.
Impact echo also provides independent measurement of concrete element thickness from one side only, valuable for verifying as-built dimensions.
SiteOps uses impact echo alongside GPR, UPV, and half-cell mapping for comprehensive integrated assessment.
Applications
Delamination Mapping
Detecting subsurface delamination in slabs, bridge decks, and pavements.
Void Detection
Identifying internal voids and incomplete grout fill in post-tensioning ducts.
Thickness Measurement
Measuring element thickness from one side only.
Bridge Deck Assessment
Systematic assessment for delamination, spalling risk, and quality variation.
Technical specifications
| Frequency Range | 1–80 kHz |
|---|---|
| Thickness Range | 75mm – 2000mm (concrete) |
| Accuracy | ±3% of actual thickness |
| Test Speed | ~10 seconds per point |
| Standards | ASTM C1383, ACI 228.2R |
Related technologies
Related services
FAQ
Common questions
How does impact echo differ from GPR?+
GPR detects electromagnetic interfaces (steel in concrete). Impact echo detects acoustic interfaces (voids, delaminations). They are complementary.
Deploy IE on your asset
Share drawings, exposure conditions, and programme constraints — we will propose an investigation scope aligned to Australian standards and your risk profile.
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