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Question 1

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What is the primary reference document for evaluating corrosion and repair of unbonded single-strand tendons?

ACI 318

ACI 423.4R

PTI DC10.5

ASTM A416

to track

2026 Statistics

Key Facts: PTI Unbonded PT Repair Exam

~50

Exam Questions

PTI

70/80%

L1/L2 Passing Score

PTI

2 days

Workshop Length

PTI

$800-$1.2K

Workshop + Exam Fee

PTI

4 years

Certification Validity

PTI

Closed

Book Policy

PTI

The PTI Repair exam is a closed-book test given at the end of a 2-day workshop. Score 70% for Level 1 or 80% for Level 2. Key domains: Repair Methods (25%), Condition Assessment (20%), Strengthening (15%), Corrosion (15%), Safety (10%), Documentation (10%), and Codes (5%). No prerequisites beyond workshop attendance.

Sample PTI Unbonded PT Repair Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to test your PTI Unbonded PT Repair exam readiness. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 100+ question experience with AI tutoring.

1What is the primary reference document for evaluating corrosion and repair of unbonded single-strand tendons?

A.ACI 318

B.ACI 423.4R

C.PTI DC10.5

D.ASTM A416

Explanation: ACI 423.4R is the report specifically addressing corrosion and repair of unbonded single-strand tendons. It provides guidance on evaluation methods, corrosion mechanisms, and repair procedures unique to unbonded PT systems. ACI 318 is the general building code, not a repair-specific guide. Exam Tip: Remember that ACI 423.4R is your go-to reference for unbonded tendon evaluation and repair — it covers everything from corrosion assessment to splice procedures.

2When using Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) to locate tendons in post-tensioned concrete, what does the device transmit into the structure?

A.Ultrasonic sound waves

B.High-frequency radio waves

C.X-ray radiation

D.Infrared light pulses

Explanation: GPR transmits high-frequency radio waves (electromagnetic pulses) into the concrete and analyzes the reflected signals to identify subsurface objects such as tendons, rebar, and conduits. The reflections occur at material boundaries where dielectric properties change. Exam Tip: GPR is non-destructive and does not use ionizing radiation — distinguish it from radiographic (X-ray) methods, which require radiation safety protocols.

3What is the minimum recommended exposed length of tendon for a corrosion evaluation per ACI 423.4R?

A.6 inches (150 mm)

B.12 inches (300 mm)

C.24 inches (600 mm)

D.36 inches (900 mm)

Explanation: ACI 423.4R recommends exposing selected tendons for a length of at least 12 inches (300 mm) for as much of their circumference as practical during corrosion evaluation. This length provides sufficient area to assess the condition of the strand, sheathing, and corrosion-inhibiting coating. Exam Tip: The 12-inch exposure minimum is a frequently tested value — it allows adequate visual and physical inspection of the tendon components.

4Which type of coating is typically applied to unbonded post-tensioning strands to provide corrosion protection?

A.Epoxy paint

B.Petroleum-based wax or grease (PT coating)

C.Zinc galvanizing

D.Polyurethane sealant

Explanation: Unbonded post-tensioning strands are coated with a petroleum-based wax or grease, commonly referred to as PT coating, which fills the annular space between the strand and the plastic sheathing. This coating provides both corrosion protection and a low-friction surface that allows strand movement during stressing. Exam Tip: If water penetrates the sheathing and displaces the PT coating, the corrosion protection is compromised — this is a key failure mechanism to understand.

5What is the primary hazard when cutting or accidentally severing a stressed unbonded tendon?

A.Concrete dust exposure

B.Sudden release of stored elastic energy causing the strand to recoil

C.Chemical burn from corrosion inhibitor

D.Electrical shock from grounding strands

Explanation: A stressed unbonded tendon stores significant elastic energy. When severed, the strand can recoil violently at high speed in both directions from the cut point, posing a serious risk of injury or death to nearby workers. This stored energy hazard is unique to post-tensioned systems. Exam Tip: Always assume tendons are stressed unless verified otherwise — the energy release from a single 0.5-inch strand at full stress can be lethal.

6Before performing any repair on a post-tensioned member, what structural evaluation step must be completed first?

A.Aesthetic assessment of surface finish

B.Analysis of the member's capacity with reduced prestress to ensure adequate safety

C.Paint color matching for the repaired area

D.Acoustic emission testing of all tendons

Explanation: Before repair work begins, a structural evaluation must determine whether the member can safely carry existing loads with the reduced prestress from damaged or severed tendons. This analysis considers the loss of prestress force, dead and live load effects, and potential redistribution of forces to adjacent members. Exam Tip: Structural evaluation is always the first step — never begin physical repair work without confirming the member's current load-carrying capacity.

7What device is used to measure the remaining stress in an unbonded tendon during evaluation?

A.Strain gauge

B.Lift-off test using a hydraulic jack

C.Ultrasonic thickness gauge

D.Digital caliper

Explanation: A lift-off test uses a hydraulic jack to gradually apply force to the tendon at an accessible anchorage until the wedges just begin to release ('lift off'). The jack pressure at lift-off indicates the existing tendon force. This is the standard field method for verifying remaining prestress in unbonded systems. Exam Tip: The lift-off test requires access to the anchor — if both ends are inaccessible, alternative methods such as exposed-strand jacking may be needed.

8In an encapsulated unbonded PT system, what is the function of the plastic sheathing around the strand?

A.To increase the bond between strand and concrete

B.To provide a continuous moisture barrier and allow strand movement

C.To add structural capacity to the tendon

D.To serve as electrical conduit

Explanation: The plastic sheathing (typically extruded polyethylene or polypropylene) serves two purposes: it provides a continuous moisture barrier protecting the strand from corrosion, and it creates an unbonded interface that allows the strand to move freely during stressing and under service loads. Exam Tip: Damage to the sheathing breaks the moisture barrier and can allow water intrusion — even small punctures must be repaired to maintain the corrosion protection system.

9What is the preferred location along a tendon to perform a splice repair in a continuous beam?

A.Directly over a support column

B.At the point of contraflexure (inflection point)

C.At the midspan of the longest span

D.Within the anchorage zone

Explanation: The preferred splice location is at the point of contraflexure (inflection point), where the bending moment is zero or near zero. This location typically coincides with the tendon passing through the middle of the slab depth, providing maximum concrete cover for the repair and minimizing the structural impact of the splice. Exam Tip: Splicing at the inflection point reduces the moment demand at the repair location and provides the greatest clearance for repair hardware installation.

10What type of material is typically used to repair damaged sheathing on an unbonded tendon?

A.Duct tape

B.Heat-shrink tubing

C.Fiberglass wrap

D.Sheet metal sleeve

Explanation: Heat-shrink tubing is the standard material for repairing damaged sheathing on unbonded tendons. Multiple sizes of tubing are used to provide a smooth, tight seal to the adjacent intact sheathing, restoring the continuous moisture barrier. The tubing is heated with a torch or heat gun to shrink it firmly in place. Exam Tip: Heat-shrink tubing must overlap intact sheathing on both sides of the damage to ensure a complete watertight seal.

About the PTI Unbonded PT Repair Exam

The PTI Unbonded PT Repair certification validates competency in the repair, rehabilitation, and strengthening of single-strand unbonded post-tensioning systems in elevated structures. The exam covers repair methods, condition assessment, corrosion diagnostics, strengthening techniques, safety during de-tensioning, and documentation. This credential is designed for personnel who assess and repair damaged or deteriorated PT systems.

Questions

50 scored questions

Time Limit

End of 2-day workshop

Passing Score

70% (Level 1) / 80% (Level 2)

Exam Fee

$800-$1,200 (workshop + exam) (Post-Tensioning Institute (PTI))

PTI Unbonded PT Repair Exam Content Outline

25%

Repair Methods and Techniques

Tendon splicing, strand replacement, anchorage repair, encapsulation repair methods

20%

Condition Assessment and Diagnostics

Tendon investigation, corrosion assessment, non-destructive testing, condition surveys

15%

Strengthening and Rehabilitation

External PT strengthening, FRP reinforcement, supplemental tendons, load testing

15%

Corrosion and Deterioration

Corrosion mechanisms, chloride exposure, carbonation, sheathing deterioration, grease condition

10%

Safety and Hazard Management

Tendon cutting safety, de-tensioning procedures, stored energy hazards, PPE requirements

10%

Documentation and Reporting

Repair documentation, condition reports, photographic records, engineering evaluations

Codes and Standards

ACI 318, ACI 562, PTI repair standards, IBC requirements for repair work

How to Pass the PTI Unbonded PT Repair Exam

What You Need to Know

Passing score: 70% (Level 1) / 80% (Level 2)
Exam length: 50 questions
Time limit: End of 2-day workshop
Exam fee: $800-$1,200 (workshop + exam)

Keys to Passing

Complete 500+ practice questions
Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
Focus on highest-weighted sections
Use our AI tutor for tough concepts

PTI Unbonded PT Repair Study Tips from Top Performers

1Understand the different types of tendon damage: corrosion, mechanical damage, and fire exposure

2Know de-tensioning safety procedures — stored energy in stressed tendons is extremely dangerous

3Study corrosion mechanisms: chloride-induced vs carbonation-induced deterioration

4Review non-destructive testing methods for locating and assessing tendon condition

5Memorize ACI 562 requirements for structural repair of existing buildings

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the PTI Unbonded PT Repair certification?

The PTI Repair certification validates knowledge of repairing, rehabilitating, and strengthening unbonded post-tensioning systems. It covers condition assessment, repair methods, corrosion diagnostics, strengthening techniques, and safety during de-tensioning operations.

Who should get PTI Repair certification?

This certification is for PT field personnel, structural repair contractors, building engineers, and inspectors who assess or repair damaged, corroded, or deteriorated unbonded PT systems in buildings and parking structures.

What are common PT repairs covered in the exam?

The exam covers tendon splicing, strand replacement, anchorage repair, corrosion-related repairs, encapsulation repair, external PT strengthening, and FRP reinforcement. Understanding de-tensioning safety is critical.

Is the PTI Repair exam the same workshop as the installer exam?

No. The PTI Repair workshop is a separate 2-day program specifically focused on repair and rehabilitation. It is different from the Unbonded PT Installer or Slab-on-Ground workshops.

What are the prerequisites for PTI Repair certification?

There are no formal prerequisites. You must attend the full 2-day PTI Unbonded PT Repair workshop. Prior PT installation or inspection experience is recommended but not required for Level 1.

How does corrosion affect PT tendons?

Corrosion from chloride exposure or carbonation can weaken or sever PT strands, leading to loss of prestress force and potential structural failure. The exam covers corrosion mechanisms, assessment methods, and repair strategies.