Evaluating concrete durability using simple non–destructive test towards performance–based specifications

摘要

Concrete Durability is considered an essential characteristic of concrete structures exposed to the aggressive environment. Evaluating concrete durability using traditional laboratory tests is time–consuming and elaborate. Also, using non–destructive tests (NDT) requires the use of sophisticated and costly tests. Chloride–induced corrosion is the most deterioration mechanism worldwide. Concrete capability to resist the penetration of chloride ion can be evaluated by the rapid chloride ion penetration test (RCPT) as per ASTM C1202. This study investigates the use of a simple, rapid and economic NDT (i.e., surface resistivity test) to evaluate the concrete resistance to chloride ion penetration. Test results showed that surface resistivity results correlate very well with chloride ion penetration results. Also, surface resistivity can predict a wide range of RCPT values with very good accuracy. That will help practitioners to quickly, efficiently and economically evaluate concrete durability using a simple NDT. That will help to move towards performance–based specifications and improve quality control of concrete during construction.