Methodology for non-destructive testing of marine concrete durability

The research grant creates new knowledge in the assessment of the technical condition of marine structures' concrete using non-destructive testing (NDT) methods, including conducting in-depth research with the novel drilling resistance method, which is rarely used in practice so far. Concrete in marine structures is subjected to aggressive environmental conditions, including exposure to chlorides, sulfates, and freezing, resulting in damage to the concrete. Up to date there is no methodology for damage assessment using NDT methods has been developed so far. Within the grant, concrete intended for marine structures will be manufactured, aged in aggressive environment, and NDT methods for assessing concrete durability will be applied and validated. The concrete will be examined using ultrasonic pulse velocity tester, rebound hammer, and the Windsor probe test, and an innovative method will be developed and validated to assess the condition of concrete layer-by-layer – resistance to drilling. Based on the results obtained, a methodology will be developed for assessing the durability of marine structures\' concrete, allowing for rapid assessment of the material\'s technical condition and degree of damage. The grant will establish a research group that brings together scientists from RTU and its cooperation partner RTU Latvian Maritime Academy. The grant also includes international collaboration with Brunel University London (UK) and involves students in the research.