A simple method for estimation of permeability of concrete from the compressive strength and pore size distribution based on literature survey

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the impacts of compressive strength and curing conditions of concrete on pore size distribution and air permeability. An empirical correlation was developed by analyzing the results from existing studies that measured both pore size distribution and air permeability. Air permeability was calculated using an empirical correlation newly developed. However, the correlation was targeted only to dry concrete since the influence of water content is very large on air permeability of concrete. To calculate air permeability of concrete in various water content, another correlation was developed between the degree of pore saturation and air permeability. Using the measurement result of pore size distribution, this study examined the effect of compressive strength and curing conditions on changes in pore size distribution and air permeability. Pore size distribution was measured by mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) using samples taken from mortar fragments collected from concrete. The compressive strength of concrete ranged from 21 to 150 MPa. Curing conditions were either water curing or air curing or sealed curing.