Classifying Concrete Permeability Using Rapid Chloride Permeability and Surface Resistivity Tests: Benefits, Limitations, and Predictive Models—A State-of-the-Art Review

Abstract

Penetration of harmful substances, such as chloride ions, is a major contributor to durability issues in concrete structures. Low permeability is critical for long-term performance, prompting the assessment and classification of concrete based on its resistance to ionic transport. However, the transport mechanisms are complicated and influenced by a range of interdependent factors including binder type, mixture proportions, specimen age, and curing conditions. There are two widely adopted test methods used for assessing chloride ion permeability: the Rapid Chloride Permeability Test (RCPT) and the Surface Resistivity Test (SRT), a non-destructive alternative. While RCPT is well-established, its long testing time as well as its high costs and sensitivity to specimen preparation limit its practicality. The SRT offers faster, more repeatable, and easier implementation. This state-of-the-art review systematically compares RCPT and SRT results across studies, revealing a strong inverse correlation with coefficients of determination (R2) from 0.85 to 0.95, as influenced by compressive strength, testing age, water-to-cement ratio, and supplementary cementitious material (SCM) type. Results showed that RCPT often has standard deviation (SD) values exceeding 300 coulombs and coefficient of variation (COV) values up to 10%, while SRT has lower variability (SD < 3 kΩ·cm and COV ≈ 5%). The review concludes that, with appropriate calibration, the SRT can reliably classify concrete permeability, closely aligning with RCPT results. However, research gaps remain regarding the applicability of existing models to less conventional SCMs and concrete types. Future research should prioritize the development of binder-specific correlations, validation using diffusion-based methods, and exploration of alternative SCMs and curing regimens to expand SRT applicability.