Sonic Impact Method – A new technique for characterization of stone masonry walls

Granite stone masonry wall panels were studied using an acoustic Indirect Sonic Impact Method, ISIM. The test campaign included direct and indirect wave travel path together with sonic and ultrasonic wave frequencies to determine the deformation modulus of both individual stones as well as of wall panels. Using the ISIM technique it was possible to obtain two types of wave velocities, P and R, which in turn enabled a cross-validation of the deformation modulus estimation. Results from mechanical compression tests on the wall panels were also used and compared with the ISIM results.