What is the sample used for determining compressive strength in structural concrete?

The compressive strength of structural concrete is typically determined using a concrete cylinder sample. This method is widely adopted because it reflects the material's performance under typical loading conditions that concrete structures encounter in real-world applications.

Concrete cylinders are prepared by casting concrete into cylindrical molds, which are then cured and tested under standardized conditions. The cylindrical shape allows for uniform stress distribution during the testing process, providing accurate measurements of the compressive strength.

In contrast, other sample types, such as concrete slabs, cubes, or blocks, may not provide the same level of consistency or relevance for this specific test. For example, while concrete cubes are also used in some regions for strength testing, the cylinder is the more universally accepted form for reliable results and comparability across different assessments.