Calculating the Compressive Strength of Concrete Structures Using Effects of Freeze-Thaw Cycles on Electrical Resistivity

Soroosh Sobhkhiz*, Mohammad Ho

Abstract

Traditionally, one of the influential parameters in concrete structures sustainability has been the number of freeze-thaw cycles over the life period of concrete structures. Since some regions in the world have highly variable climates, freeze-thaw cycles are one of the most important factors that decreases the lifetime service of structures. In this paper, samples were exposed to freeze-thaw cycles after 28 days of treatment, in order to investigate the effect of freeze-thaw cycles on sustainability and durability of concrete. Their Electrical Resistivity (ER) and compressive strength were measured at different cycles. Afterwards, the extent of reduction in compressive strength and ER were compared with each other considering, to the number of freeze-thaw cycles. The results indicated both, concrete ER and compressive strength were decreasing in each cycle, where these reductions were calculated for five different water-cement (W/C) ratios. Hence, a relationship between compressive strength and ER can be correlated.