Concrete mechanical properties and pore structure influenced by high permeability water pressure

Abstract

Based on the self-developed high permeability water pressure loading system, the physical and mechanical properties and pore structure evolution under various high permeability water pressures were studied. This study aims to reveal the microscopic damage mechanism of concrete when subjected to high permeability water pressures. The results indicate that the internal water content increases with the rising of water pressure under various high permeability conditions. Furthermore, the higher the water pressure, the greater the reduction in strength, particularly evident in low-strength-grade concrete. High permeability water pressure causes to the expansion of gelatinized pores with small sizes into transition pores. Moreover, there is a concurrent alteration in both pore size and pore number under high permeability water pressure.

Keywords

• Concrete strength
• High permeability water pressure
• Porosity
• Strength damage