International Concrete Abstracts Portal

Title: Concrete Durability: The Interface Between Research and Practice

Author(s): T. P. O'Brien R. Cather and J. W. Bryant

Publication: Special Publication

Volume: 100

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 255-264

Keywords: acceptability; concrete durability; mix proportioning; performance; permeability; specifications; General

Date: 4/1/1987

Abstract:
Research is ultimately of any value only if the results are translated into practice. Concrete durability is an exceptionally complex subject and research is made more difficult by the problems of controlling the variables and when the material tested may not adequately represent the material used in construction. The long-time scales of durability research are a further significant factor. Design engineers and contractors are not concrete durability specialists. Durability is but one of a long list of criteria that must be considered and judgments must be exercised among many, often conflicting, facets. Inevitably, the results of research must be codified into rules for use in practice. However, these rules must be logical, comprehensible, practical, and realistic with regard to cost benefits and risks. The basis for such rules or codes would be much improved if a rational framework were developed for design life, serviceability, maintenance, and maintainability of concrete structures. Two conceptual approaches to durability specification are proposed.