A testing methodology for performance-based specification

• Published in: Journal of structural integrity and maintenance Vol. 2; no. 2; pp. 78 - 88
• Main Authors: McCarter, W. J., Suryanto, B., Taha, H. M., Nanukuttan, S., Basheer, P. A. M.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Taylor & Francis 03.04.2017
• Subjects: Concrete; durability; formation factor; resistivity; testing
• ISSN: 2470-5314; 2470-5322
• DOI: 10.1080/24705314.2017.1318040

Satisfactory guidelines for ensuring adequate reinforced concrete durability can only be developed by monitoring concrete performance under a range of field exposure conditions over an extended period of time. Only then can there be a move from prescriptive durability specifications (minimum grade, maximum water-binder ratio, and minimum cement content) to performance-based methods. The situation is also made more complex by the range of cements now available - BS EN 197 defines a total of 27 products in the family of common cements. Implementation of both design for durability and performance-based standards and specifications are limited by the lack of rapid, simple, science-based test methods for characterizing the transport properties and deterioration resistance of concrete. This paper presents an overview of performance-based specification and developments in the application of electrical property measurements as a candidate testing methodology in evaluating the relative performance of concrete mixes. The technique lends itself to in situ monitoring, thereby allowing measurements to be obtained on the as-placed concrete.