ABSTRACT
The sonic test is used to evaluate the post construction “integrity” conditions of foundation piles, i.e., their continuity, density homogeneity, cross section & length variations, and overall quality in subjective terms. If major “defects” (deviation from nominal construction original standards) exist, the test estimates their magnitude and approximate location. This test is normally performed some days after pile execution. It requires minimal pile preparation, and because of its simplicity, speed of execution and low cost, it is now widely used in Brazil under ASTM (2007) given the lack of a national standard on this subject.
