A new four stage model of capillary pressure in early age concrete: Insights from high capacity tensiometers

Capillary pressure is frequently measured to evaluate the shrinkage performance of concrete but has been limited pressures <100 kPa preventing a better understanding early age factors affecting durability. In this study, high capacity tensiometers (HCTs) were employed for first time investigate behavior concrete. The evolution capillary in Self-Consolidating Concrete (SCC) with and without reducing admixture was evaluated. results demonstrate that HCTs are capable measuring beyond 1500 kPa. This transformative new record enabled development model correlated water evaporation, self-desiccation, setting time, temperature, hydration processes. ability quantify real-time change generates important implications optimizing commercial durability SCC link between processes resultant mechanical performance.