Depth of Penetration of Water under Pressure

Depth of Penetration of Water under Pressure

Principle

Water is applied under pressure to the surface of hardened concrete. At the end of the test period the test specimen is split and the maximum depth of penetration of water is measured.

Test specimens

The specimens are cubes, cylinders or prisms with a minimum edge length or diameter of 150 mm.

The test area on the specimen is a circle with a 75 mm diameter (the water pressure may be applied from above or below).

Conditions during the test

·     The water pressure must not be applied on a smoothed/finished surface of the specimen (preferably take a formed lateral area for thet est). The report must specify the direction of the water pressure in relation to the pouring direction when the specimens were made (at right angles or parallel).

·     The concrete surface exposed to the water pressure must be roughened with a wire brush (preferably immediately after striking of the specimen).

·     The specimens must be at least 28 days old at the time of the test.

Test

During 72 hours, a constant water pressure of 500 (±50) kPa (5 bar) must be applied.

The specimens must be regularly inspected for damp areas and measurable water loss.

After the test the specimens must be immediately removed and split in the direction of pressure. When splitting, the area exposed to the water pressure must be underneath.

If the split faces are slightly dry, the directional path of penetration of water should be marked on the specimen.

The maximum penetration under the test area should be measured and stated to the nearest 1 mm.