Strength class is accepted as the main criteria of quality for ready-mixed concrete produced in concrete-making plants. Using the concrete mix, a concrete element with strength considerably differing from the suggested class can be produced. The objective of the conducted tests was to determine to what extent the assumption about homogeneity of concrete in the element is not applicable to industrial concrete floors. The tests were performed on core boreholes, taken from six floors made in various regions of the country. The ultrasound method with heads ensuring spot contact with the material and destructive method were used. The tests showed that the surface layer of the floors, thickness 5-8 cm from the top, is very weakened. The biggest loss of strength occurs in the zone most exposed to loads, to abrasion. Cured and uncured, stratified and nonstratified layered floors were tested. It was proven that the assumption about homogeneity of concrete in the floors is incorrect. It was proposed that the quality of concrete in floors should be characterized not only using class but also strength gradient. Gradient of 1.0 MPa/cm could be acceptable.

Keywords: thickness; strength variability testing; ultrasound.