ASTM International has launched a test method aimed at improving and standardising the way that resistance of concrete to electrical current flow helps assess its durability
Developed by ASTM’s concrete and concrete aggregates committee, the test method (C1876-19) is expected to assess a concrete’s ability to resist the penetration of fluids, which helps to determine concrete structure durability.
Douglas Hooton, ASTM member, says saturated specimens of hardened concrete are tested to see how well they resist electrical currents. Concrete’s ability to resist aggressive fluids, and its resistance to electric currents, depend on its pore size and porosity, two factors that help determine its durability. (Exposure to water, salt water, and other fluids break down concrete or embedded steel reinforcement over time.)
“Various forms of this test method are already used in the United States and globally, but differences in sample conditioning and testing details cause different results. Therefore, having this standard will help users obtain reproducible results,” Hooton adds.
He explains the committee welcomes participation as they will next address potential changes to allow for alternate versions to verification procedures as well as further development of an appendix (for calculating a formation factor).
Become a member at www.astm.org/JOIN. The next meeting of the ASTM International committee on concrete and concrete aggregates is 8-11 Dec at the Marriott Marquis Houston in Texas.
