Online Skill Training > Online Module > ITTHO-Testmate Concrete Dual Test System
| Introduction | Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 | Step 5 | Step 6 |
Development of TestMate Dual Test System

The concern for concrete durability has led to the development of the dual-test with emphasis on the simultaneous testing for strength and durability on the standard 150mm concrete test cube. The rationale of the dual-test is based on the fact that strength alone is inadequate to ensure long term durability performance. Although there are several methods of assessing durability such as carbonation test and rapid chloride permeability, there is a need for a standardized, convenient and reliable method for assessing concrete durability.

Benefits

This system is appropriate because durability problem is usually related to water permeability. The dual-test system is useful for the testing of precast concrete piles and cement-lined pipes for waterworks which are subject to constant water pressure.

Features of TestMate

  1. portable and self contained
  2. fast and economical - the test only requires cool boiled water
  3. reliable as repeated test can be conducted on four sides of a test cube
  4. NDT on the standard test cube prior to the determination of compressive strength
  5. ultrasonic pulse velocity of the test cube can be determined to check for uniformity of the samples while the water permeability test is in progress
Some Facts and Figures

Good concrete practice through a result of relentless collaborative research and development effort.

Simplified formula when the gasket thickness is fixed at 10mm and the water pressure is 1.5 bar,

  1. Ccp=7.91x10-10(g/t)m/s for grade 80 concrete
  2. Ccp=6.63x10-10(g/t)m/s for grade 65 concrete
  3. Ccp=7.99x10-10(g/t)m/s for grade 45 concrete
  4. Ccp=1.20x10-9(g/t)m/s for grade 35 concrete
  5. Ccp=1.31x10-9(g/t)m/s for grade 25 concrete