IS 58161999AI Search Enabled✦ AI Generated

Method of Test Splitting Tensile Strength of Concrete

IS 5816:1999 specifies the method for determining the splitting tensile strength of concrete, a critical parameter for assessing concrete's resistance to tensile stresses. This standard is essential for civil and structural engineers, quality control professionals, and researchers involved in concrete testing and design to ensure structural safety and performance.

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What This Standard Covers

IS 5816:1999 specifies the method for determining the splitting tensile strength of concrete, a critical parameter for assessing concrete's resistance to tensile stresses. This standard is essential for civil and structural engineers, quality control professionals, and researchers involved in concrete testing and design to ensure structural safety and performance.

Who Uses This Standard

  • Structural Engineers
  • Civil Engineers
  • Quality Control Engineers
  • Concrete Technologists
  • Laboratory Technicians
  • Research Scientists in Construction Materials
  • Construction Project Managers

Key Topics Covered

Splitting tensile strength test procedure
Specimen preparation and dimensions
Test apparatus requirements
Loading rate and method
Calculation of tensile strength
Test conditions and environment
Interpretation of test results
Safety precautions during testing
Applicability to different concrete grades
Reporting and documentation standards
Limitations of the test method

Table of Contents

1Scope

IS 5816: Code of Practice for Splitting Tensile Strength of Concrete (Revised)

Scope (Summary)

  • Applies to the determination of splitting tensile strength of concrete using cylindrical specimens.
  • Relevant for quality control and design verification of concrete structures.
  • Test method evaluates tensile strength indirectly by applying compressive load on a cylinder along its diameter.

Key Formula for Splitting Tensile Strength (f_ct,sp):

[ f_{ct,sp} = \frac{2P}{\pi LD} ]

Where:

  • ( P ) = Maximum load applied (N)
  • ( L ) = Length of the cylinder (mm)
  • ( D ) = Diameter of the cylinder (mm)
  • ( f_{ct,sp} ) = Splitting tensile strength (MPa)

Typical Specimen Dimensions:

  • Diameter ( D = 150 ) mm
  • Length ( L = 300 ) mm (2 × diameter)

Key Points:

  • Test is done on cylindrical specimens.
  • Load applied along the length on two opposite lines.
  • Results correlate well with direct tensile strength of concrete.

flowchart LR
    A[Apply Load P] --> B[Concrete Cylinder]
    B --> C[Splitting along diameter]
    C --> D[Measure Load at Failure]
    D --> E[Calculate f_ct,sp = 2P / πLD]

For detailed procedures, refer to IS 5816 full text.

2References

IS 5816 primarily deals with "Splitting Tensile Strength of Concrete" and does not have specific clauses titled "References" or "Departmental Forms."

Key Formulas from IS 5816:

  • Splitting Tensile Strength, ( f_{ct} ):

[ f_{ct} = \frac{2P}{\pi LD} ]

Where:

  • ( P ) = Maximum load applied (N)
  • ( L ) = Length of the cylinder (mm)
  • ( D ) = Diameter of the cylinder (mm)

Typical Test Setup:

  • Cylinder placed horizontally between loading strips.
  • Load applied diametrically until failure.

Important Specifications:

  • Cylinder size: 150 mm diameter × 300 mm length (standard)
  • Loading rate: 1.2 kN/s to 2.4 kN/s

Summary Table:

ParameterValue/Unit
Cylinder Diameter (D)150 mm
Cylinder Length (L)300 mm
Loading Rate1.2 - 2.4 kN/s
Formula for ( f_{ct} )( \frac{2P}{\pi LD} )

This formula and setup are essential for determining the tensile strength of concrete by splitting test per IS 5816.

3Terminology

IS 5816 pertains to "Splitting Tensile Strength of Concrete — Test Method," and its Terminology section defines key terms related to the test.

Key Terminology (IS 5816):

  • Splitting Tensile Strength (ft): The tensile strength of concrete determined by applying a compressive load along the length of a cylindrical specimen, inducing tensile stress perpendicular to the load.

  • Specimen: Usually a concrete cylinder of 150 mm diameter and 300 mm length.

  • Load Application: Load is applied diametrically on the cylinder to cause splitting failure.

Important Formula:

The splitting tensile strength, ( f_t ), is calculated as:

[ f_t = \frac{2P}{\pi LD} ]

Where:

  • ( P ) = Maximum applied load (N)
  • ( L ) = Length of the cylinder (mm)
  • ( D ) = Diameter of the cylinder (mm)

Typical Dimensions:

ParameterValue
Diameter (D)150 mm
Length (L)300 mm

This terminology and formula are fundamental for understanding and performing the splitting tensile strength test as per IS 5816.

4Apparatus

IS 5816 relates to Splitting Tensile Strength of Concrete — Test Method.

Apparatus as per IS 5816:

The standard specifies the following key apparatus for the test:

  • Compression Testing Machine: Capacity of at least 2000 kN, with a uniform rate of loading.
  • Cylindrical Moulds: Typically 150 mm diameter and 300 mm height for specimen casting.
  • Bearing Strips: Wood or metal strips, 25 mm wide and 5 mm thick, placed between the specimen and loading surfaces to ensure uniform load distribution.
  • Measuring Instruments: Vernier calipers or micrometers for measuring specimen dimensions.

Key Specifications:

  • Loading Rate: Apply load at a constant rate so that failure occurs within 2 to 3 minutes.
  • Specimen Size: Usually 150 mm diameter × 300 mm height cylinders.
  • Test Setup: Load applied diametrically on the cylinder using bearing strips.

Formula for Splitting Tensile Strength (f_t):

[ f_t = \frac{2P}{\pi LD} ]

Where:

SymbolDescription
(f_t)Splitting tensile strength (MPa)
(P)Maximum applied load (N)
(L)Length of cylinder (mm)
(D)Diameter of cylinder (mm)

flowchart LR
    A[Compression Testing Machine] --> B[Specimen (Cylinder)]
    B --> C[Bearing Strips on top and bottom]
    C --> D[Load applied diametrically]
    D --> E[Measure max load P]
    E --> F[Calculate f_t = 2P / (πLD)]

This setup ensures uniform tensile stress distribution and accurate splitting tensile strength measurement.

5Test Specimen

IS 5816 covers "Splitting Tensile Strength of Concrete" test procedures.

Key Specifications for Test Specimen (IS 5816):

  • Shape: Cylinder (commonly)
  • Size:
    • Diameter (d) = 150 mm
    • Length (L) = 300 mm (L = 2d)
  • Curing: Specimens should be cured as per IS 516 before testing.
  • Condition: Test specimen should be free from cracks and defects.

Key Formula for Splitting Tensile Strength (f_t):

[ f_t = \frac{2P}{\pi d L} ]

Where:

  • (P) = Maximum applied load (N)
  • (d) = Diameter of cylinder (mm)
  • (L) = Length of cylinder (mm)

Summary Table for Specimen Dimensions:

ParameterValue
Diameter (d)150 mm
Length (L)300 mm
Aspect Ratio2 (L/d)

flowchart LR
    A[Test Specimen] --> B[Cylindrical Shape]
    B --> C[Diameter = 150 mm]
    B --> D[Length = 300 mm]
    A --> E[Curing as per IS 516]
    A --> F[Free from cracks]
    A --> G[Apply Load P]
    G --> H[Calculate f_t = 2P / (π d L)]

This ensures uniformity and accuracy in tensile strength testing of concrete.

6Procedure

IS 5816 deals with "Splitting tensile strength of concrete - Method of test". The Procedure for test is critical and involves:

Key Procedure Steps (IS 5816):

  • Use a cylindrical specimen (typically 150 mm diameter × 300 mm height).
  • Place specimen horizontally between loading surfaces.
  • Apply load through a steel strip or bearing strips along the length.
  • Load applied at a constant rate to cause failure by splitting.
  • Record the maximum load (P) at failure.

Key Formula for Splitting Tensile Strength ( f_{sp} ):

[ f_{sp} = \frac{2P}{\pi LD} ]

Where:

  • ( P ) = maximum applied load (N)
  • ( L ) = length of cylinder (mm)
  • ( D ) = diameter of cylinder (mm)

Typical Dimensions:

  • Diameter ( D = 150 ) mm
  • Length ( L = 300 ) mm

Notes:

  • Ensure specimen is moist cured.
  • Load applied at a rate of 0.7 to 1.4 MPa/min.

This method provides a direct measure of concrete's tensile strength, essential for design and quality control.

7Calculation of Splitting Tensile Strength

IS 5816 primarily deals with methods of test for splitting tensile strength of concrete.

Key Formula for Splitting Tensile Strength (ft)

The splitting tensile strength is calculated as:

[ f_t = \frac{2P}{\pi LD} ]

Where:

  • ft = Splitting tensile strength (MPa)
  • P = Maximum applied load (N)
  • L = Length of the cylinder specimen (mm)
  • D = Diameter of the cylinder specimen (mm)

Typical Specimen Dimensions (per IS 5816)

  • Cylinder size: 150 mm diameter × 300 mm length
  • Loading applied along the length of the cylinder

Test Setup Summary

  • Load applied diametrically on the cylinder
  • Load increased until failure
  • Failure is a vertical crack along the loaded diameter

Important Notes

  • Ensure uniform load application with strips or bearing plates.
  • Testing rate: Load applied at a rate to cause failure in 2 to 3 minutes.
  • Use moist-cured specimens for 28 days for standard results.

flowchart LR
    A[Cylindrical Specimen] --> B[Load Applied Diametrically]
    B --> C[Specimen Fails in Vertical Crack]
    C --> D[Record Maximum Load P]
    D --> E[Calculate ft = (2P) / (π L D)]

This formula and procedure provide the splitting tensile strength, a key parameter for concrete tensile behavior.

8Test Report

IS 5816: Test Report for Tensile Testing of Steel Reinforcement

Though IS 5816 does not explicitly provide a detailed "Test Report" format, key specifications and formulas for reporting tensile test results include:

Key Test Parameters to Report:

  • Specimen identification
  • Gauge length (Lo)
  • Initial diameter or cross-sectional area (Ao)
  • Maximum load (Pmax)
  • Load at yield point (Py)
  • Elongation at fracture (ΔL)
  • Fracture type and location

Important Formulas:

ParameterFormulaDescription
Tensile Strength (f_t)( f_t = \frac{P_{max}}{A_0} )Maximum load / original area
Yield Strength (f_y)( f_y = \frac{P_y}{A_0} )Load at yield point / original area
Percentage Elongation (ε)( \epsilon = \frac{\Delta L}{L_0} \times 100 )(Final gauge length - original) / original length × 100

Typical Test Report Table Format:

ParameterValueUnit
Specimen ID--
Gauge Length (L0)200mm
Diameter (d)12mm
Cross-sectional Area (A0)( \pi d^2 /4 )mm²
Maximum Load (Pmax)600kN
Yield Load (Py)450kN
Tensile Strength (f_t)CalculatedMPa
Yield Strength (f_y)CalculatedMPa
Elongation (%)Measured%
Fracture TypeDuctile/Brittle-

This format ensures compliance with IS 5816 tensile testing and clear communication of results.

9Precautions

IS 5816: Code of Practice for Splitting Tensile Strength of Concrete

While IS 5816 primarily deals with test methods for tensile strength, precautions during testing are critical for valid results. Although the code does not provide a dedicated clause on precautions, key standard practices include:

Key Precautions for Splitting Tensile Test (IS 5816):

  • Specimen Preparation: Use cylindrical specimens (typically 150 mm diameter × 300 mm length).
  • Surface Condition: Ensure smooth, clean, and plane loading surfaces; apply a thin plywood strip (10 mm thick) along the loading length to distribute load evenly.
  • Alignment: Align specimen properly in the testing machine to avoid eccentric loading.
  • Loading Rate: Apply load at a uniform rate of 0.7 to 1.4 MPa/min until failure.
  • Machine Calibration: Use calibrated compression testing machines with a capacity at least 1.5 times the expected load.
  • Avoid Shock Loading: Load must be applied gradually to prevent dynamic effects.

Formula for Splitting Tensile Strength, ( f_{ct} ):

[ f_{ct} = \frac{2P}{\pi L d} ]

Where:

  • ( P ) = Maximum applied load (N)
  • ( L ) = Length of the cylinder (mm)
  • ( d ) = Diameter of the cylinder (mm)

Summary Table for Specimen Dimensions and Loading

ParameterValue
Specimen Diameter150 mm
Specimen Length300 mm
Loading Strip10 mm thick plywood
Loading Rate0.7 to 1.4 MPa/min

flowchart LR
    A[Prepare cylindrical specimen] --> B[Place plywood strips]
    B --> C[Align specimen in machine]
    C --> D[Apply load at uniform rate]
    D --> E[Record maximum load P]
    E --> F[Calculate tensile strength using formula]

Note: Always refer to IS 5816 for detailed test procedure and calibration requirements.

10Notes

IS 5816 deals with "Splitting Tensile Strength of Concrete — Method of Test." Since your query is about Notes but no specific clause is provided, here are the key points and formulas typically relevant:

Key Formula for Splitting Tensile Strength (ft)

The splitting tensile strength is calculated as:

[ f_t = \frac{2P}{\pi LD} ]

Where:

  • P = Maximum applied load (N)
  • L = Length of the cylinder (mm)
  • D = Diameter of the cylinder (mm)

Typical Specimen Dimensions

  • Cylinder size: 150 mm diameter × 300 mm length

Important Notes:

  • Load is applied diametrically on the cylinder.
  • Test should be conducted at 28 days curing age (or as specified).
  • The value represents tensile strength indirectly by splitting.

Reference Table (Example):

Cylinder Diameter (D)Cylinder Length (L)
150 mm300 mm

If you need detailed departmental forms or CE timetables, those are administrative and not part of IS 5816 technical content.

graph LR
A[Apply Load P] --> B[Concrete Cylinder]
B --> C[Stress Distribution]
C --> D[Splitting Tensile Strength ft]

Popular Questions About IS 5816

?What is the recommended specimen size for the splitting tensile strength test?

IS 5816 deals with splitting tensile strength of concrete.

Recommended Specimen Size for Splitting Tensile Strength Test (IS 5816):

  • Specimen Type: Cylinder
  • Dimensions:
    • Diameter (d) = 150 mm
    • Length (l) = 300 mm (2 × diameter)

This size is standard for splitting tensile strength tests to ensure uniform stress distribution during loading.

Additional Notes:

  • The test involves applying a compressive load along the length of the cylinder across a narrow strip.
  • The failure occurs due to tensile stresses perpendicular to the applied load.
  • The splitting tensile strength (f_t) is calculated as:

[ f_t = \frac{2P}{\pi d l} ]

where:

  • (P) = Load at failure (N)
  • (d) = Diameter (mm)
  • (l) = Length (mm)

Loading diagram...

This ensures consistent and reliable tensile strength measurement as per IS 5816.

?How is the splitting tensile strength calculated according to IS 5816?

According to IS 5816: Method of Test for Splitting Tensile Strength of Concrete, the splitting tensile strength (f_ct) is calculated using the formula:

[ f_{ct} = \frac{2P}{\pi LD} ]

Where:

  • P = Maximum applied load (N)
  • L = Length of the cylindrical specimen (mm)
  • D = Diameter of the cylindrical specimen (mm)

Key points:

  • The test uses a cylindrical concrete specimen, typically 150 mm diameter and 300 mm length.
  • Load is applied diametrically until failure occurs.
  • The formula assumes uniform tensile stress distribution along the loaded diameter.

This test is also known as the Brazilian test and is widely used to estimate tensile strength indirectly.

Loading diagram...

This method provides a reliable tensile strength value for design and quality control.

?What loading rate should be applied during the test?

IS 5816 covers "Splitting tensile strength of concrete - Test method".

Loading Rate for Test (IS 5816)

  • The loading rate during the splitting tensile strength test should be such that the specimen fails within 30 seconds to 90 seconds.
  • This corresponds to a load application rate of approximately 0.7 to 1.4 MPa/min (megapascal per minute) on the specimen.

Why this rate?

  • Ensures uniform stress distribution.
  • Avoids dynamic effects or creep influencing the results.

Summary:

ParameterValue
Loading Rate0.7 to 1.4 MPa/min
Failure Time30 to 90 seconds

This rate is consistent with standard tensile testing practices to ensure reliable and repeatable splitting tensile strength results.

?Are there specific environmental conditions required for testing?

IS 5816 covers "Splitting Tensile Strength of Concrete" testing but does not specify explicit environmental conditions for conducting the test.

Key points on environmental conditions for testing concrete (general practice):

  • Temperature: Maintain 20 ± 5°C during curing and testing.
  • Humidity: Keep specimens in a moist environment (≥ 95% relative humidity) during curing.
  • Testing environment: Conduct tests in a controlled environment to avoid rapid drying or temperature fluctuations.

Summary:

  • IS 5816 does not explicitly mandate environmental conditions.
  • Follow general concrete testing standards from IS 516 or IS 456 for curing and testing environments.

If needed, here is a typical curing condition table from IS 516:

ParameterValue
Temperature20 ± 2°C
Relative Humidity≥ 95%
Curing Duration28 days (standard)
Loading diagram...

This ensures consistent and reliable test results.

?Can this test method be used for all grades of concrete?

IS 5816 covers the method of test for splitting tensile strength of concrete.

Applicability to Concrete Grades:

  • IS 5816 is applicable to all grades of concrete, from M10 to high-strength concrete (M60 and above).
  • The test evaluates tensile strength by applying diametral compression on a cylindrical specimen.
  • It is widely used because tensile strength is critical for design, irrespective of concrete grade.

Key Points:

  • Specimen: Cylinder, typically 150 mm diameter × 300 mm height.
  • Test is valid for normal weight concrete; for lightweight or special concretes, adjustments may be needed.
  • Tensile strength (f_t) is calculated as:

[ f_t = \frac{2P}{\pi LD} ]

Where:

  • (P) = Load at failure (N)
  • (L) = Length of cylinder (mm)
  • (D) = Diameter of cylinder (mm)

Summary:

  • Yes, IS 5816 test method is suitable for all concrete grades.
  • Provides reliable tensile strength data essential for design and quality control.
Loading diagram...

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