Title: Experimental Method to Investigate Airflow through Cracked Concrete

Author(s): Julia A. Bruce, Evan C. Bentz, and Oh-Sung Kwon

Publication: Materials Journal

Volume: 119

Issue: 6

Appears on pages(s): 221-231

Keywords: airflow; cracked concrete; leak rate; permeability

DOI: 10.14359/51737197

Date: 11/1/2022

Abstract:
This paper summarizes the results of a pilot experimental program intended to develop a robust data for global airflow through cracked concrete, with comparisons against a traditionally used prediction method. Current models for predicting airflow through concrete based on Poiseuille flow poorly translate to large-scale specimens and real-world conditions without calibration. This paper presents a novel testing apparatus that will be used to identify key variables affecting flow rate and develop numerical prediction methods for industrial application.