Predicting concrete durability from its absorption



Dhir, RK, Roderick Jones, M, Byars, EA and Shaaban, IG ORCID: 0000-0003-4051-341X
(1994) Predicting concrete durability from its absorption. In: CANMET/ACI International Conference on Concrete Durability, 1994-5-1 - 1994-5-3, Nice.

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Abstract

This paper discusses the current approach for specifying the durability of concrete in structures. The shortcomings of the use of bulk parameters such as strength, water/binder ratio and binder content to specify durability are discussed. Studies carried out over the last 10 years at Dundee University, using simple permeation tests, which are sensitive to curing, cement type and grade of concrete, have shown close association between permeation properties and the durability of concrete. This paper deals with the measurement of concrete durability by the Dundeemodified Initial Surface Absorption Test (ISAT). A wide range of concrete mixes made with ordinary portland cement and blends with pulverized-fuel ash (PFA) and ground-granulated blastfurnace slag were designed. The duration of moist curing was varied from 0 to 28 days, and the maximum aggregate size from 5 to 40mm. All mixes were tested for absorptivity and aspects of durability including freeze/thaw resistance, carbonation, chloride ingress and mechanical wear. The results show that the absorptivity of concrete, measured with the ISAT, could be used as an accurate specification for concrete durability, irrespective of curing, grade or mix constituents. A tentative surface absorptivity classification for durability has been proposed.

Item Type: Conference or Workshop Item (Unspecified)
Depositing User: Symplectic Admin
Date Deposited: 08 Dec 2017 13:47
Last Modified: 19 Jan 2023 06:48
URI: https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/3013739