<p><p><strong>References:<br></strong><em>Elias et al. (2006)<br>Hussin (2001)<br>Serridge and Synac (2007)</em></p><p><strong>Method Summary</strong></p><p>VCCs are similar to other structural elements in that the design of the element is only valid if the materials used in construction have the strengths assumed during design. Verification of the material properties is essential. The case history discussed in the FHWA (Elias et al. 2006) document describes a concrete cylinder testing program in which four concrete cylinders were made each day during production and tested in accordance with ASTM C39, <em>Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens</em>, at 5, 10, and 28 days. Rebar certification should also be done when rebar is required for tensile or lateral load applications.</p><p><strong>Accuracy and Precision</strong></p><p>Concrete cylinder testing is considered an accurate assessment of the concrete strength for the VCCs.</p><p><strong>Adequacy of Coverage</strong></p><p>Concrete cylinder testing is relatively inexpensive and an adequate number of tests can generally be conducted to provide a high confidence level of the strength of the concrete.</p><p><strong>Implementation Requirements </strong></p><p>Material testing is a very common practice. A laboratory facility with proper test equipment and certifications is required.</p><p><strong>General Comments</strong></p><p>Material testing is a very common and straightforward process to assess the structural capacity of the column.</p></p>