testing machine and tested as shown in Fig. 2. This test
conforms to ASTM C 469 (ASTM 2006c) for static modulus
of elasticity of concrete in compression. All the specimens
were tested on saturated surface dry condition.
The permeability characteristics of the concretes were
assessed at 28 days using Germann Water permeability Test
(GWT meter, Denmark). This test, conducted on two saturated
150 mm cube specimens, basically measures the volume
of water penetrating under a 5 kg/m2 pressure over a
1-h period. The coefficient of permeability was determined
with the help of Darcy’s law. The test is performed on two
side surfaces of each of the cubes, and it is ensured that there
is no leakage at any point through the gasket. Also the water
penetration depths under pressure were performed on
150 mm cubes as per BS EN 12390-8 (BS 2000) at 28 days.
The test method involves the study of water penetration on
15 cm cubes over a 5 bar pressure for a period of 72 h. The
experimental setup used for this study was shown in Fig. 3.
After the test the specimens were split exactly into two
halves and the water penetration front was marked on the
specimen as shown in Fig. 4. The maximum depth of penetration
under the test area was determined using vernier
caliper and recorded it to the nearest millimetre.