Modelling moisture conditions in cementitious materials – some present challenges

Summary, in English

The moisture conditions of a concrete have a decisive effect on several properties and many parts of deterioration processes. The moisture distribution in a concrete structure is determined by the concrete composition, curing and the microclimate in the different parts of the structure. A prediction requires access to data on the time-dependency of the binder reactions, moisture fixation and moisture flow, ambient temperature and humidity and computer software for more complicated cases. A lot of research has been performed within these topics during the last decades. Today this knowledge can be applied in the design of structures. Examples are given on possible applications.

The paper concentrates on moisture equilibrium conditions and moisture transport properties; the mechanisms, theoretical descriptions and available data. An over-view is given on the various alternative theoretical treatment of moisture flow, including moisture flow under a temperature gradient. The moisture flow causing convection of ions is also discussed. Available data from literature and from recent experiments are presented and discussed.

• Author: Lars-Olof Nilsson
• Department/s: Division of Building Materials
• Publishing year: 2006
• Language: English
• Pages: 45-62
• Publication/Series: [Host publication title missing]
• Volume: 51
• Document type: Conference paper
• Publisher: RILEM
• Topic: Materials Engineering
• Keywords: sorption isotherm; transport; convection; moisture
• Conference name: 2nd International Symposium on Advances in Concrete through Science and Engineering
• Conference date: 2006-09-11 - 2006-09-13
• Conference place: Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
• Status: Published
• ISBN/ISSN/Other: ISBN: 2-35158-003-6