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Characterisation of the gas transport properties of porous materials by determining the radon diffusion coefficient

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Abstract

A method for the determination of the diffusion coefficient of materials by using the radioactive gas radon is presented. This gas is inert and extremely low concentrations can be detected because of the radioactive decay. The method was applied to mortars and concretes in order to optimise their composition with respect to a low radon diffusion rate. These optimised materials are to be used for concrete slabs in buildings. Compared to regular concrete, a reduction of the radon diffusion rate by more than 90% could be achieved.

Résumé

L’article présente une méthode destinée à la détermination du coefficient de diffusion de matériaux poreux à l’aide du gaz noble radon. En raison de la décroissance radioactive de ce gaz inerte, on peut mesurer des concentrations extrémement basses. Cette méthode était appliquée afin d’optimiser la composition du béton et du mortier dans le but d’obtenir un coefficient de diffusion aussi faible que possible. Ces bétons et mortiers optimisés seront utilisés pour des dalles dans des bâtiments. Comparé à des bétons de composition moyenne, une réduction du taux de diffusion du radon de plus de 90% a pu être réalisée.

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References

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Dept. of Civil Engineering, Leipzig University of Applied Sciences, Germany

    T. Klink, K. Gaber & E. Schlattner

  2. Dept. of Civil Engineering, University Essen, Germany

    M. J. Setzer

Authors
  1. T. Klink
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  2. K. Gaber
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  3. E. Schlattner
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  4. M. J. Setzer
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Additional information

Editorial Note Prof. K. Gaber is a RILEM Senior Member Prof. M. J. Setzer is a RILEM Senior Member and the Chairman of the RILEM Technical Committee 176 IDC. ‘Internal damage of concrete due to frost action’ and participates to the work of RILEM Technical committee 178-TMC: ‘Testing and modelling chloride penetration in concrete’.

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Klink, T., Gaber, K., Schlattner, E. et al. Characterisation of the gas transport properties of porous materials by determining the radon diffusion coefficient. Mater Struct 32, 749–754 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02905071

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02905071

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