Numerical Methodology to Minimize Resolution and Sensitivity Effects in P-Wave Measurements

This paper presents a new numerical methodology aiming at facilitating the identification of seismic wave's propagation time, using a time domain approach. The solution uses first- and second-order differential computing, namely divided differences methods. Results of extensive laboratory seismic wave tests over aggregate-cement mixtures with different voids ratios (densities) and cement contents (1 %, 2 %, 3 %, 4 %, and 5 %) are discussed. The results indicated relevant differences in values of longitudinal modulus (or P-wave modulus) derived with and without this methodology. This was considered especially important in stiff specimens with high-seismic wave velocities and low-energy input signals.