Methods to evaluate test results based on small sample sizes

Abstract

For the assessment of the load bearing capacity of existing constructions, information is often required that can only be obtained by building substance inspection and testing. The most integral form of the experimental evaluation in an existing structure is the classic load test, since the structural safety can be demonstrated directly and non-destructively. However, it is problematic to transfer the results of one or a small number of experiments to other untested components. This article discusses existing evaluation methods and introduces a new approach to account for uncertainties when transferring test results to untested components.