Journal Published Online: 08 April 2021
Volume 10, Issue 1

Methods of Test for Concrete Permeability: A Critical Review

CODEN: ACEMF9

Abstract

The transport of liquids, gasses, and aggressive agents into concrete is responsible for a variety of durability issues. To obtain the low-permeability concrete required for long-lasting, sustainable infrastructure, stakeholders desire the ability to specify concrete based upon the permeability rating for specific uses. The mechanisms of moisture ingress into concrete are complex phenomena, and they are highly dependent on materials, mixture characteristics, curing conditions, and other factors. This review article provides an overview of the available permeability test methods and identifies existing gaps in the current field and knowledge. It discusses the mechanisms and key factors influencing moisture movement within concrete (capillary suction, absorption, water, and gas permeability) and outlines the procedures, advantages, and limitations of available permeability test methods. Despite a variety of tests available for water permeability, widespread acceptance for use of a single (or even a few) tests has not been achieved. No clear link exists between these tests and acceptable field performance. Additionally, several tests are viewed as problematic from a time, cost, or variability standpoint. Therefore, improved rapid permeability tests are needed to provide a pathway for agencies to move toward performance specifications with confidence. Recommendations regarding future work to support the development of improved test methods and, potentially, a model that would predict moisture ingress based on electrical resistivity, are also presented.

Author Information

Milla, Jose
Louisiana Transportation Research Center, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
Cavalline, Tara L.
Department of Engineering Technology and Construction Management, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
Rupnow, Tyson D.
Louisiana Transportation Research Center, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
Melugiri-Shankaramurthy, Bharath
Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
Lomboy, Gilson
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ, USA
Wang, Kejin
Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
Pages: 38
Price: $25.00
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Stock #: ACEM20200067
ISSN: 2379-1357
DOI: 10.1520/ACEM20200067