Investigation of the Permeability of Concrete by Penetration Method and Numerical Analysis

The study of water penetration in concrete has the critical purpose of controlling the erosion process of construction structures that are frequently exposed to wet environments. The study focuses on the permeability of concrete with different grades, combining the use of mineral and liquid waterproofing admixtures to evaluate their effectiveness. The permeability coefficient of concrete is determined based on experimental results by penetration method and numerical analysis. Penetration tests were conducted to determine the permeability of concrete with designed strength from 20 to 40 MPa. Mineral and liquid waterproofing admixtures to improve the density of concrete are used in appropriate concentrations. The three-dimensional (3D) model with finite element analysis in PLAXIS 3D was established to simulate seepage through the air voids in concrete. Testing to determine the permeability of concrete types combined with different kinds of waterproofing admixtures gives reliable results. The simulation model of the process of water penetration in concrete gives consistent results and corresponds to the experimental results.