Measurement of the air permeability of concrete "in situ": Status quo

Author(s): R. Torrent
Paper category: Conference
Book title: Concrete Repair, Rehabilitation and Retrofitting III (ICCRRR)
Editor(s): M.G. Alexander, H.-D. Beushausen, F. Dehn, P. Moyo
Print ISBN: 978-0-415-89952-9
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Group
Pages: 110 – 112
Total Pages: 3
Language: English

Abstract: 
The authors have been involved in the creation, development and preliminary applications of the “Torrent Method” to test, non destructively, the air-permeability of concrete. The method is suitable for the laboratory but, more important, for site investigation of finished structures. It has been about 20 years since such foundational research and this paper presents a review of the evolution and current situation of the Method, included in the Swiss standards in 2003. Application examples conducted in laboratory and civil works (bridges, tunnels and buildings) are presented, including data from different countries worldwide. Correlations between the air permeability coefficient kT and other durability indicators, such as South African Durability Indices, Chloride migration (ASTM C1202), Penetration of water under pressure (EN 12390–8) or Capillary suction are presented. Recent recommendations of the Swiss Federal Highway Administration on the application of the method on site are summarized. Finally, the future prospective uses are discussed, both as quality control tool for new structures and for the condition assessment of existing structures.

Online publication: 2014
Publication Type: abstract_only
Public price (Euros): 0.00