Experimental proof of moisture clog through neutron tomography in a porous medium under truly one?directional drying

Structural failure of concrete buildings on fire and complete destruction the monolithic refractory lining during their drying stage are dangerous examples effect explosive spalling partially saturated porous media. Several observations in both cases indicated presence moisture accumulation ahead front, which tune with most common theories concrete. Previous studies have shown evidence existence this phenomenon, however, they were biased by artifacts experimental limitations (such as beam hardening changes microstructure material due to pressure temperature sensors). In current work, rapid neutron tomography was used investigate in-operando behavior a high-alumina castable, proposing novel layout aimed at truly one-dimensional front. This setup provided more realistic boundary conditions, such larger wall heated from one its sides, while also preventing some nonphysical (notably hardening). By eliminating these aspects, direct proof that accumulates front obtained. work lays basis for further focusing response sensitivity analysis conditions other parameters (e.g., heating rates properties sample related clog formation), well useful data validation characterization stages numerical models