Suitability of different tests for characterization of the dimpled concrete‐to‐concrete interface

The main aim of this study was to assess the suitability of different existing test setups for the mechanical characterization of a dimpled interface obtained by casting concrete against dimpled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) membrane. Even though this type of interface roughening is widely used, especially for monolithic connections between precast elements, to the best of the authors' knowledge there is no research providing any data regarding its roughness parameters, tension, and shear strength, nor its failure modes. To this end, a two-fold objective was established for this research: (a) to identify and analyze, from a technical standpoint, the available test configurations for characterizing the mechanical performance of interfaces, and (b) to perform an extensive experimental program devoted to characterizing the mechanical performance of a dimpled HDPE membrane-cast concrete interface. The suitability of each test for reproducing the expected stress state and the actual resistance mechanism was analyzed. Moreover, a comparison between tension and shear tests, including its main advantages and disadvantaged are also presented.