How does the Permeability of Concrete affect its Durability?
The durability of concrete has proven to be a formidable obstacle in the service life of new and existing structures. The durability of concrete is a function of permeability. Permeability is governed by the capillary pores in the cement paste. Pores that are too large will result in a high permeability, while pores that are small will result in a low permeability. The objective of this research is to study the permeability of concrete as the water-to-cement ratio is changed. For this investigation, the AutoClam device will be used to explore the permeability of different water-to-cement ratios respectively. Results presented in this investigation will provide valuable knowledge of the durability of concrete. Current research and or tests will study any relationships between water permeability and the water-cement ratio of the concrete mix. Our ultimate goal will be to show/prove an inverse relationship between water permeability and concrete water-to-cement ratio. The test results show that by increasing or decreasing of water-to-cement ratio and curing time, the permeability of concrete changes. The AutoClam was successful in measuring the permeability of concrete used for this research. In the future the AutoClam can be tested side by side with a 16' head of water and or the Rapid Chloride
School:
University of New Orleans
Department:
Civil Engineering
Research Advisor:
David A. Lange
Department of Research Advisor:
Civil & Environmental Engineering
Year of Publication:
2008