Characterization of the water flow through concrete based on parameter estimation from infiltration tests

When considering the durability and performance of concrete structures, the characterisation of the moisture distribution becomes a question of major concern. In this paper, a new approach for the characterization of the flow parameters, either under saturated or partially saturated conditions, is presented. The method is based on numerical back-analysis of simple and inexpensive infiltration tests. The satisfactory results that were obtained support the validity of the methodology developed and point towards a promising new line of research. Further examples covering a wider casuistic of concrete types must be performed before the applicability of the method can become fully consolidated.