In addition, durable concretes must have low permeability to resist the infiltration of harmful solutions into concrete. Corrosion of the reinforcing steel is the most extensive. In each case, water or solutions penetrating into the concrete initiate or accelerate the distress, making costly repairs necessary. Air-entrained concretes that have low permeability are required to resist the infiltration of aggressive liquids and provide the necessary durability upon exposure to the environment.
Permeability is the property that governs the rate of flow of a fluid into a porous solid.
Proper construction practices are needed to produce quality concrete elements. With proper use and interpretation, the rapid permeability test provides satisfactory results and can be used in specifications for accepting concrete. Back to Top. Chlorides from deicing salts and a marine environment infiltrate concrete and initiate corrosion of the steel reinforcement. Rust formation results in expansion that may cause cracking and delaminations.