Characterization of Cementitious Materials Through Analysis of Dispersion Curves Using Singular Value Decomposition

Non-destructive characterization of cementitious materials is essential to ensure structural integrity and longevity in civil engineering. This study presents an advanced approach using singular value decomposition (SVD) to analyze ultrasonic dispersion curves, thereby improving the clarity and precision of ultrasonic characterization of cement slabs. We focused on the impact of different water/cement ratios on ultrasonic properties, revealing how these ratios influence the material's microstructure and mechanical properties. Our results show that higher water/cement ratios increase porosity and reduce density, thus slowing down the propagation of ultrasonic waves and potentially reducing mechanical strength. The application of SVD allowed for the isolation of significant signal components, providing a better understanding of the acoustic behavior and mechanical properties of the material. These findings highlight the importance of precise control over the water/cement ratio in the development of durable and robust cementitious structures. The study suggests that SVD can significantly improve the reliability of non-destructive testing methods, making it a valuable tool in materials science and engineering. This research advances current methodologies by offering enhanced accuracy in characterizing the internal structure and mechanical properties of cementitious materials.