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Evaluation Method of Relative Humidity Changes in Below-Grade Concrete Structure Space Depending on Different
Ki-Won An1, Kyu-Hwan Oh2, Bo Jiang3
1Department of Architecture, Graduate school, Seoul National University of Science & Technology, 232 Gongneung-ro, Nowon-gu, Seoul 01811, Korea.
This study introduces a new method to evaluate waterproofing materials' relative humidity (RH) control. Urethane and cementitious materials were tested, showing quantitative differences in RH performance crucial for concrete structures.
Area of Science:
- Construction Materials Science
- Building Physics
- Environmental Engineering
Background:
- Effective waterproofing is critical for the durability of concrete structures, especially underground.
- Relative humidity (RH) control is a key performance indicator for waterproofing materials.
- Existing evaluation methods may not adequately capture RH performance under varying environmental conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a novel evaluation method for assessing the relative humidity (RH) control performance of waterproofing materials.
- To quantitatively compare the RH control performance of different waterproofing materials and installation methods.
- To establish provisional standard criteria for RH control in underground concrete structures.
Main Methods:
- Developed a quantitative RH analysis method and apparatus.
- Exposed urethane coating and cementitious waterproofing materials (installed on positive and negative sides of concrete) to simulated seasonal temperatures (4°C, 20°C, 40°C).
- Measured condensation levels and derived parameters: average RH, intercept RH (from linear regression), and maximum RH.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated a quantitative difference in RH control performance between positive-side urethane and negative-side cementitious waterproofing materials.
- Established provisional criteria (below 70% RH) based on underground structure specifications.
- Utilized linear regression and cumulative probability density graphs for RH consistency and range analysis.
Conclusions:
- The proposed evaluation regime provides a quantitative method to assess and compare the RH control performance of waterproofing systems.
- Positive-side installed urethane waterproofing materials showed different RH control characteristics compared to negative-side installed cementitious materials.
- The newly designed evaluation criteria offer a standardized approach for ensuring waterproofing performance in concrete structures.
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