Abstract

BEUSHAUSEN, H  and  ALEXANDER, M G. The South African durability index tests in an international comparison. J. S. Afr. Inst. Civ. Eng. [online]. 2008, vol.50, n.1, pp.25-31. ISSN 2309-8775.

Over the last decade, an approach to improving the durability of reinforced concrete construction has been developed in South Africa. The durability index test methods applied in this approach are unique to the country. Internationally, similar trends can be observed and a number of test methods for the quality assessment of hardened concrete, particular the cover zone have been developed world-wide. A group of researchers from different parts of the world carried out comparative tests on the quality of concrete cover, applying the most commonly accepted international test methods. The results indicate that the South African oxygen permeability and chloride conductivity test methods are successful in characterising the concrete cover in respect of important deterioration mechanisms. A good correlation exists between results obtained from these index test methods and those obtained from related test procedures applied overseas.

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