How Well do Resistivity Measurements Predict Permeability in Concrete?

Abstract

Water permeability of concrete has long been associated with concrete durability, however water permeability of concrete is not easy to measure, and there is no standardized method for measuring water permeability of concrete. Resistivity has been related to permeability since at least the early 1980's, and resistivity requirements are now frequently included in concrete materials specifications when durability is a major concern. But is there a good correlation between resistivity and concrete water permeability? This paper analyses data from a 2023 NCHRP study of permeability and resistivity for normally‐cured and accelerated‐cured concrete mixtures made with a variety of cementitious material combinations. Mixtures with lightweight aggregates were also included. The relationship between resistivity and concrete water permeability is not consistent. Mixtures with lightweight aggregates do not correlate with mixture made without lightweight aggregates.