Implications of the compressive strength control accuracy on the probability of accepting defective concrete elements

Abstract

The contribution of control method inaccuracy to the accuracy and performance of building structures while adhering to the metrological requirements for the strength determination process in reference materials is analysed. The metrological fundamentals for improving the testing and quality control methods of modern concretes and their impact on the reliability of erected structures are developed. The measurement accuracy dependence on the quality control of concrete materials and products by destructive methods is established, the number of rejected products is determined. The accuracy of concrete quality control is assessed in relation to the likelihood of defective products. A Bayesian model is proposed for the probability of missing a defective product with known control confidence and the probability of error due to measurement and testing error in the control process. The additional probability of missing concrete defects in strength when testing in standard specimens by the destructive method due to imperfect test methods is calculated. The 'non-zero probability' of missing a defect in the concrete strength control process affecting the level of reliability is assessed, provided the metrological requirements for the test are met.