Durability Assessment of Concrete Structures Using RCPT and RCMT

Durability of the concrete is its ability to resist weathering, chemical attack, and abrasion without reduction in strength for the entire lifespan for which it is designed. It depends upon the environmental factors and the working conditions such as site conditions and workmanship. Durability is affected by various factors such as quantity of cement content used, water: binder ratio. It is of paramount importance, since it is required throughout its service life and decides the age of the concrete structure. Turning a blind eye toward the durability aspect results in high costs involved in repairs and modification of concrete structures. Ingress of chloride ions in concrete affects the durability of concrete structures. Chloride ion migration is dependent on the permeability of concrete. This results in corrosion of steel reinforcement used. The corrosion products which are formed take up extra space in the concrete medium resulting in spalling, cracking and ultimately failure of the concrete. The RCPT test is conducted as per ASTM C 1202 and the RCMT test is conducted as per NT BUILD 492. In the present study, a comparison of RCPT and RCMT tests and their relevance and usefulness in evaluating the durability properties of concrete is presented and both the tests will be compared.