Identification and quantification of cracks in concrete by optical fluorescent microscopy

Cracks in concrete structures can indicate major structural problems and can damage the appearance of monolithic construction. Cracking of concrete is a major factor affecting for the material strength and durability. The development of a crack pattern can contribute to increasing the permeability and the diffusivity of concrete, which is generally connected with a substantial reduction of its durability. This paper describes a method for identification and quantification of crack patterns in concrete by means of optical fluorescent microscopy and image analysis. Results obtained for undamaged and deteriorated specimens are presented. The range of investigation included several concrete mixes made in the laboratory. In order to induce cracks, concrete mixes were exposed to freezing action 0, 1 and 2 h after mixing. The concrete cubes of 100-mm and 150-mm size were frozen for 0 (reference specimens) and 2 days. Investigation of compressive strength, water permeability, chloride migration and analysis of cracks was made after 28 days. The low-temperature deteriorated specimens showed a significant reduction of compressive strength and resistance to water and chloride penetration in concrete. Correlations between density of cracks and compressive strength, depth of water penetration and depth of chloride penetration have been proposed.