Concrete strength: the effect of ocean-depth water pressure

Document Status

Archived

Supplement

Core Supplement

Series

Information Paper

Abstract

Describes a laboratory study of the effect of immersion in water at pressure on the strength of concrete specimens. Compression and flexure tests were carried out under water pressure and after depressurisation. High water pressure, equivalent to submersion in the ocean at a depth of 6,000 metres, damaged the concrete, causing loss of compressive strength and flexural strength. Additional tests suggest that this damage was caused by the mechanical effect of high confinement, rather than by permeation of water. In contrast, at lower water pressures equivalent to submersion at sea depths (below 1,000 metres), loss of strength only occurred if the concrete was depressurised, and was a result of water entering the concrete.

Author

Clayton, N.

History

Whilst this publication can still be purchased some of the information in it has been superseded by more recent research and standards. The BRE Group does not accept any responsibility whatsoever for any loss or damage, including - without limitation - indirect or consequential loss or damage arising from use, or loss of use, of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this document.

ISBN

9781860813665

Subjects

• Materials
• In situ concrete/cement
• Concrete testing

Publisher History

BRE is a building science centre that generates new knowledge through research. This is used to create products, tools and standards that drive positive change across the built environment. BRE helps its government and private sector clients meet the significant environmental, social and economic challenges they face in delivering homes, buildings and communities. BRE is owned by the BRE Trust, a registered charity. The Trust uses the profits made by the BRE companies to fund research and education that advances knowledge of the built environment.