Nondestructive Evaluation of Material Dependence of Mortar Setting and Hardening Using a Quartz‐Crystal‐Based Complex Capacitance Sensor

ABSTRACT In this study, nondestructive evaluations of the setting and hardening process of cementitious materials were performed using a quartz‐crystal‐based complex capacitance sensor. The timing of setting and the process of hardening can be determined from the change in the frequency change. First, nondestructive measurements of the setting and hardening process of mortar were carried out and a combined evaluation was successfully carried out at two frequencies to evaluate the setting and hardening process. The weathering and cement material type dependence of the setting and hardening process was also evaluated, and differences in the reaction mechanism due to the properties of each compound were successfully detected. This research is expected to contribute to the streamlining of construction planning in the construction and civil engineering fields, the prolongation of the service life of infrastructure facilities, and the field of cement science.