Water Safety Plan

VOID RATIO AND EFFECTIVE POROSITY PROFILING
FOR POROUS CONCRETE
UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH THESIS SUBMITTED

IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE DEGREE OF
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ENGINEERING
Submitted by:
J.Jenany (2014/E/013)
W.P.D.L Silva (2014/E/053)
Supervisor(s):
Dr. D. N. Subramaniam
DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

FACULTY OF ENGINEERING
UNIVERSITY OF JAFFNA
26/07/2018
VOID RATIO AND EFFECTIVE POROSITY PROFILING FOR
POROUS CONCRETE
Supervisor(s):
Dr. D. N. Subramaniam ..........................................
Examination Committee:
Lecturer 1 ..........................................
Lecturer 2 ..........................................
Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 i

DECLARATION
We, the undersigned, hereby declare that this report was written by ourselves and the work
contained therein is our own, except where explicitly stated in the text.
J.Jenany (2014/E/013) ..................................

W.P.D.L Silva (2014/E/053) .................................
Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 ii

CONTRIBUTION TO THE FINAL THESIS BY THE MEMBERS IN GROUP
Sections JENANY J. W.P.D.L SILVA

CHAPTER I: INTRODUCTION  
1.1 BACKGROUND 
1.2 RESEARCH QUESTION 
1.3 SIGNIFICCANCE 
1.4 AIM AND OBJECTIVE 
1.5 PROJECT DISCRIBTION 
1.5.1 Literature Review
1.5.2 Experiments
1.5.3 Data Analysis
1.5.4 Publiccations
CHAPTER II: LITERATURE REVIEW  
2.1 GENERAL 
2.2 IMPORTANT FACTORS AFFECT THE
POROSITY 
2.2.1 Aggregate type and size 
2.2.2 Aggregate, Cement ratio 
2.2.3 Water, Cement ratio 
2.2.4 Cement content 
2.3 POROSITY 
2.3.1 Total porosity 
2.3.2 Effective porosity 
2.3.3 Volumetric porosity 
2.4 POROSITY DISTRIBUTION 
2.4.1 Pores disribution 
2.4.2 Vertical porosity distribution 
2.4.3 Horizontal porosity distributiion 
2.5 PORES CONNECTIVITY 
2.6 METHODS 
2.6.1 Sample preperatin 
2.6.2 Image analysis 
2.6.3 CT scanning 
Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 iii

2.7 STATISTICAL ANALYSIS  
2.7.1. Stereological Methods 
2.7.2. Two Point Correlation function 
2.7.3. Morphological methods 
2.7.4. Granulometry 
2.7.5. Statistical Representation of Pore Size
Distribution in Pervious Concretes 
2.8. SUMMARY OF THE LITERATURE REVIEW  
CHAPTER III – METHODOLOGY  
3.1 Proposed methodology 
3.2 Critical review of literature 
3.3 Used material 
3.4 Mix design 
3.5 Compressive strength testing 
3.6 Sample preparation 
3.7 Effective porosity measurements 
3.8 Image preparation  
3.9 Image analysis 
3.10 Analysis  
3.11 Quality control  
3.12 Summary  
CHAPTER IV- RESULT AND DISCUSSION  
4.1 Introduction 
4.2 Effective porosity analysis 
4.3 Shape factor 
4.4 Pores area distribution 
4.5 Variation of pores area with affected factors 
4.6 Vertical porosity distribution 
4.7 Summary 
CHAPTER V-
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION 
REFERENCE 
Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 iv

PREFACE
This report consists in five chapters and brife outline of the content of each chapters are below.
The first chapter briefly explain about the what is porous concrete, what is the background of
related to this research, how this research related with practicle applications, what are the aims
and objectives of this research and research questions.
The second chapter briefly explain the literture review of the research, it’s contain the
important factors affected to the porosity (Aggregate type and size,water cement ratio,
aggregte cemet ratio and cement paste content), total porosity, effective porosity , pore size
distribution, verticle porosity distribution, horizontal porosity distribution and pore
cnonectivity. Finally, explain about the statistic analysis in literture review.
The third chapter described about methodology. That includes how the material choose, how
the sample preparetion, what were the tests did, image preparetion, image analysis and quality
control methods.
Chapter four briefly discribed the result and dicussion of this research. Result section covers
how well the vertical pore size distribution in the porous concrete, shape factors for each
design using image analysis, and statistical analysis such as correlation.
Fifth chapter contains the conclusion and recommendation of the research. Finally reference
and appendix were attached which we used for the research work.
Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 v

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Firstly, we would like to thank the Department of Civil Engineering, University of Jaffna for
their guidance, encouragement and financial support for finishing this research successfully.
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to our research supervisor Dr. D. N.
Subramaniam, Senior Lecturer, Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering,
University of Jaffna for give the best research title for our undergraduate research project,
valuable guidance, suggestions, encouragement and support to complete this research
successfully.
We would like to thank to Head of the department, Department of Civil Engineering and all
other lecturers for their valuable support and assistant during the programme.
Furthermore we would like to thank to non-academic staff specially lap assistants for giving
their valuable time and the support to finish the laboratory experiment successfully.
Finally we would like to express my sincere gratitude to all others whom we cannot name for
their support and tolerating us during this dedicated work and to.
Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 vi

TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER I - INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................ 1

1.1 BACKGROUND 1
1.2 RESEARCH QUESTIONS 2
1.3 SIGNIFICANCE 3
1.4 AIM AND OBJECTIVES 3
CHAPTER II - LITERATURE REVIEW .......................................................................... 4

2.1 GENERAL 4
2.2 IMPORTANT FACTORS AFFECT THE POROSITY 4
2.2.1 Aggregate type and size .......................................................................................... 4
2.2.2 Aggregate-Cement ratio .......................................................................................... 5
2.2.3 Water-Cement ratio ................................................................................................. 6
2.2.4 Cement paste content .............................................................................................. 6
2.3 POROSITY 6
2.3.1 Total porosity .......................................................................................................... 7
2.3.2 Effective porosity .................................................................................................... 8
2.4 POROSITY DISTRIBUTION 8
2.4.1. Pore size distribution............................................................................................... 8
2.4.2. Vertical porosity distribution .................................................................................. 9
2.4.3. Horizontal porosity distribution ............................................................................ 10
2.5. PORES CONNECTIVITY 11
2.6. METHODS 11
2.6.1. Sample preparation ............................................................................................... 12
2.6.2. CT scanning .......................................................................................................... 12
2.6.3. Image analysis ....................................................................................................... 12
2.7. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS 14
2.7.1. Stereological Methods........................................................................................... 14
3.7.2. Two Point Correlation function ............................................................................ 15
Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 vii

3.7.3. Morphological methods ........................................................................................ 15
3.7.4. Granulometry ........................................................................................................ 15
3.7.5. Statistical Representation of Pore Size Distribution in Pervious Concretes ......... 15
3.8. SUMMARY OF THE LITERATURE REVIEW 16
CHAPTER III - METHODOLOGY ................................................................................. 18

3.1 BACKGROUND 18
3.2 CRITICAL REVIEW OF LITERATURE 19
3.3 USED MATERIAL 19
3.4 SIEVE ANALYSIS 20
3.5 MIX DESIGN 21
3.6 COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH TESTING 23
3.7 SAMPLE PREPARATION 23
3.8 EFFECTIVE POROSITY MEASUREMENTS 24
3.9 IMAGE PREPARATION 25
3.10 IMAGE ANALYSIS 26
3.11 QUALITY CONTROL 27
3.12 SUMMARY 27
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION .......................................................................................... 28

4.1 INTRODUCTION 28
4.2 SHAPE FACTOR AND CORRELATION 28
4.3 EFFECTIVE POROSITY ANALYSIS 31
4.4 PORE SIZE DISTRIBUTION 32
4.5 PORES AREA VARIATION WITH A/C, AGGREGATE SIZE & COMPACTION
36
4.5.1 Variation with Pores area and Aggregate-cement ratio ........................................ 37
4.5.2. Variation with Pores area and Aggregate size ...................................................... 38
4.5.3 Variation with Pores area and Compaction........................................................... 39
4.6 VERTICAL POROSITY DISTRIBUTION 40
4.7 SUMMARY 41
Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 viii
CHAPTER V: CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS .................................. 42
REFERENCE ...................................................................................................................... 43
APPENDICES...................................................................................................................... 46
Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 ix

LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1.1: Image of pervious concrete ...................................................................................... 1

Figure 1.2: Image processing ..................................................................................................... 2
Figure 2.1: Methods used to determine pore size distribution ................................................... 9
Figure 2.2: horizontal plane ...................................................................................................... 10
Figure 2.3: Non-load bearing walls .......................................................................................... 10
Figure 2.4: Method for finding pore structure parameter ......................................................... 12
Figure 3.1: Outline of the research flowchart ........................................................................... 18
Figure 3.2: Aggregate (a), Cement (b), Paint (c) ...................................................................... 20
Figure 3.3: Sieve mesh and sieve apparatus ............................................................................. 20
Figure 3.4: Image processing for the aggregate size distribution ............................................. 21
Figure 3.5: Aggregate sieving (a), Mixing (b), Place into the mold with blows (c), Labeling
(d) and Water curing (e) ........................................................................................................... 22
Figure 3.6: Testing the compressive strength ........................................................................... 23
Figure 3.7: Core cutting (a), Drying (b), Black spray (c) and Painting (d). ............................. 24
Figure 3.8: Glass with known volume (a), Measure the porosity (b) ....................................... 24
Figure 3.9: Image preparation for method 02 ........................................................................... 25
Figure 3.10: Image preparation for method 03 ......................................................................... 26
Figure 3.11: Procedure for image analysis ............................................................................... 26
Figure 4.1: Variation of Shape factor ....................................................................................... 29
Figure 4.2 : Effective porosity analysis from the practical and image analysis ....................... 32
Figure 4.3: Pores size distribution with compaction ................................................................ 33
Figure 4.4: Pore size distribution change with A/C ratio ......................................................... 34
Figure 4.5: Pore size distribution change with aggregate size ................................................. 35
Figure 4.6: Pores area Vs A/C ratio.......................................................................................... 37
Figure 4.7: Pores area Vs Aggregate size ................................................................................. 38
Figure 4.8: Pores area Vs Compaction ..................................................................................... 39
Figure 4.9: Vertical pore size distribution variation ................................................................. 40
Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 x

LIST OF TABLES
Table 3.1: Mix proportions for twelve sets of pervious concrete ............................................. 22
Table 4.1: Shape factor for pores using image analysis ........................................................... 28
Table 4.2: Correlation for shape factor to each design ............................................................. 30
Table 4.3: Total pores area for each design .............................................................................. 36
Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 xi

ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS
A/C Aggregate-Cement ratio

RAE Representative Area Element
REA Representative Elemental Area
REV Representative Elemental Volume
SG Specific Gravity
OPC Ordinary Portland Cement
W/C Water-Cement ratio
Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 xii

ABSTRACT
Porosity being the vital parameter to predict the performance of porous concrete, it is
imperative to analyze the vertical porosity distribution. A complete understanding on the
distribution of porosity will assist the models to predict the fluid flows in porous concrete.
Prediction of performance is important in successful application of porous concrete. The
scope of our project is to develop vertical porosity distribution in porous concrete and
Objective is quantify and analyses vertical porosity distribution and develop random
probability function to predict vertical porosity distribution.
In past studies porosity distribution in the specimens was neglected. They only determined a
relationship between porosity and permeability. Mostly these studies used specimens that
were compacted in some method. Another research they only used inside slices to avoid
higher variations in porosity at the ends of the samples. Using image processing data, they
plotted, measured permeability with the measured porosity for the specimens that had a
vertical porosity distribution. Finally, they conclude that both the compaction method and
mean porosity effect the impact of a vertical porosity distribution on the permeability.
To quantify the vertical porosity distribution for each row of pixels in the image find using
ImageJ software. The image was cropped and scanned for the subsequent image analysis. The
cropped image was converted to gray scale into binary image and it was adjusted until the
correct thresholding value was ascertained. Then scale was set congruent to the dimension of
the image and analyzed to get the area of the pores by using ImageJ software.
Vertical pores area distribution mainly depend on aggregate size, A/C ratio and compaction
from the analysis, while A/C ratio increased, pores area also increased, aggregate size and
number of blows increased, pores area will be reduced. A/C ratio mostly affected, aggregate
size comparably less impact on pores area and compaction moderately affected to pores area
in the pores concrete. In addition, if pore size distribution is increased then vertical porosity
distribution also increased. This better understanding of the vertical porosity distribution in
porous concrete for non-load bearing walls.
Key words – Vertical porosity distribution, correlation, porous concrete, image processing and
effective porosity.
Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 xiii

2. CHAPTER I - INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND
Pervious concrete is potentially an environmental friendly and sustainable construction
infrastructure element. Applications of pervious concrete are mostly in pavements, non-load
bearing wall, sidewalks, walkways and vehicle parking area(Nguyen et al., 2014). Yet, our
project focuses on application on non-load bearing wall. Non-load bearing walls are structures
that use columns and beams to transfer imposed loads through those elements of wall. Porous
concrete is a form of conventional concrete in the absence of fine aggregates (only coarse
aggregates are used) intended to increase the porosity to facilitate flow of fluids(Sumanasooriya
and Neithalath, 2011). Environmental benefits of porous concrete may include the ability to
reduce noise and transfer of heat (Neithalath et al., 2010).
Figure 2.1: Image of pervious concrete
The objective of porous concrete in industrial applications is to enhance the porosity of the
concrete without compromising on its performance (such as compressive and flexural strength)
required for subsequent applications. Void ratio is the fraction of volume of voids in porous
concrete compared to the solid volume of solids. Void ratio is often considered as the surrogate
parameter to determine the porosity of concrete in industrial and laboratory scale studies. Total
porosity is the ratio of the total void volume compared to the total bulk volume which is
significantly congruent to void ratio(Lbrahim et al., 2014). Effective porosity is that portion of
the total void space of a porous material that are interconnected and capable of transmitting a
fluid, which is crucial in our study. Unconnected pores are often called dead-end pores. Particle
size, shape, and packing arrangement are among the factors that determine the occurrence of
dead-end pores(Gibb et al., 1984). But Image analyses quantify porosity and not effective
porosity(Lian et al., 2011). Applications often and more importantly depend on how well the
Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 1

pores are connected inside the concrete, such that the fluids could be transported (an objective
of industrial applications of porous concrete). The method employed to compute void ratio
nevertheless caters for the pores that are connected in general. Yet, a detail analysis of
connectivity of porosity in porous concrete is seldom covered in current literature.
The range of void ratio that is commonly reported for pervious concrete is 15%-30% (Neithalath
and Deo, 2011). Actual void ratio may not substantially indicate effective porosity. In addition,
the porosity may not be distributed uniformly in horizontal and vertical direction, which will
further complicate the distribution of void ratio and eventually deviate from effective porosity.
The ratio of effective porosity to total porosity may potentially be affected by the size of
aggregate particles, shape of particles and angularity of particles.
Using image analysis technique to compute the void ratio of porous concrete has been
effectively used in current literature. Few studies attempted to analyze the distribution of
porosity in horizontal plane based on the size of pores and the distance between the pores. The
studies however, did not analyze the distribution in horizontal and vertical plane and
connectivity of porosity, rather, employed techniques to approximate in 3-dimensional scale. A
complete analysis should also incorporate analysis of uncertainty in the distribution of porosity
and connectivity of porosity.
Figure 2.2: Image processing
1.2 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

Effective and efficient heat processes due to the porosity of porous concrete is considered
important element in non-load bearing walls. The vertical and horizontal porosity profiling are
important in porous concrete to analysis the connectivity of the pores. If there is connectivity
then only heat transferring process will be occurred in the porous concrete to non-load bearing

walls. In past studies, researches show that porous concrete can be used in the construction of
non-load bearing walls.
In past studies, researchers rarely consider the vertical porosity distribution in porous concrete
but they still didn’t consider the horizontal porosity distribution in the porous concrete.
Therefore, find the impact of horizontal porosity distribution in porous concrete thoroughly to
implement porous concrete in the industrial applications.
1. How to distribute the porosity in horizontal and vertical plane in porous concrete?
2. How well the pores are interconnected?
1.3 SIGNIFICANCE
Porosity being the vital parameter to predict the performance of porous concrete, it is imperative
to analyze the distribution and connectivity of pores. A complete understanding on the
distribution of porosity will assist the models to predict the fluid flows in porous concrete.
Prediction of performance is important in successful application of porous concrete.
1.4 AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The overall aim of our project is to develop vertical and horizontal profiling of porosity in
porous concrete. In order to attain the aim of the project, the following objectives were
formulated.
Objectives:
 Quantify and analyses 2D distribution of porosity (horizontal plane).
 Use stacking of multiple layers to analyses vertical connectivity of pores.
 Develop random probability function to predict porosity distribution.

2. CHAPTER II - LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 GENERAL
Pervious concrete (Enhanced porosity concrete) is proportioned using gap-grading the coarse
aggregates and absence of fine aggregate. Then create the porosity approximately 20-30% in
the material. A few studies have found methods to develop the compressive strength and freeze-
thaw durability of pervious concretes. The use of pervious concretes is being recognized in
many parts of the world due to the many benefits in regards to sustainability offered by this
material. Important applications of the porous concrete for low volume pavements, parking lots
and non-load bearing walls (Martin Iii et al., 2013). For that porosity is vital parameter in
pervious concrete.
Normally conventional concretes which are designed for the lowest porosity, pervious concretes
are designed for a high porosity, and a high degree of interconnected pore structure. Most of the
past studies use or assume porosity has a homogenous distribution. In vertical direction, the
porosity has a non-homogenous distribution. The average porosity could vary from the porosity
of the boundary layer which strongly influences permeability, hydraulic conductivity and
thermal conductivity(Martin Iii et al., 2013). A literature review based on past studies of
important factors affect the porosity, quantify the porosity, porous connectivity, porosity
distribution, methods, statistical analysis and summary of the literature review.
2.2 IMPORTANT FACTORS AFFECT THE POROSITY

This section explains the important factors affect the porosity such as aggregate type & size,
aggregate & cement ratio, cement content and compaction effort.
2.2.1 Aggregate type and size

In this section mainly focused on the change of porosity of pervious concrete due to aggregate
type and size. One of research paper mention pervious concrete with dolomite as the aggregate
yielded higher total porosity compared to the concrete with steel slag aggregate. Aggregate type
affects the connectivity of pores (effective porosity) than the aggregate size. Accordingly, using
Micro tomography investigation they have found the total and connected porosity were lower
in the mixtures of slag aggregate. Higher value of total porosity however, was obtained with
mixture that had higher proportion of course aggregate (Ćosić et al., 2015). In another study,
the maximum grain size of coarse aggregate they choose 10 mm. This study also conclude that
the grain size of fine aggregate has a major effect on porosity and strength. And also, the grain
size of coarse aggregate affected less in porosity. Gerharz (1999) Mentions that the aggregate
size for pervious concrete in between 4 and 8 mm. The larger aggregate sizes use (20 mm
maximum size) has been suggested for porous concrete still they have result in large sized
pavement material, in that way they can prevent clogging (Nelson et al., 1994).
Another study the preferred three sizes of aggregates used to produce gap graded pervious
concrete mixtures were # 8 (passing 4.75 mm and retained on 2.36 mm sieve), # 4 (passing 9.5
mm and retained on 4.75 mm sieve), and 3/8” (passing 12.5 mm and retained on 9.75 mm sieve).
In here they discussed the influence of single size aggregates and aggregate mixtures on the
pore sizes of different pervious concrete mixtures. Smaller aggregate size reduced connectivity
because large number of aperture or throats in specimens (Sumanasooriya and Neithalath,
2011). The porosities of aggregates with coarse particles are relatively higher than those for the
aggregates with fine particles. Because of the packing of pore particles and their irregular shape.
The single-sized coarser particles were packed more loosely, because of that increasing the
porosity (Akand et al., 2016).
2.2.2 Aggregate-Cement ratio

Aggregate-Cement ratio (A/C) mainly affects the porosity of the porous concrete. In past
studies, the researchers did experiment with different mixes, cementitious materials, w/b ratios,
and obtain the proper mix design for specific targeted porous concrete properties (Neithalath et
al., 2010). In this paper, the researcher found 20% porosity obtain using single-sized coarse
aggregate (pea gravel) (100%#8, #4, or 3/8 in.), Type 1 ordinary Portland cement, a W/C ratio
(Water-Cement ratio) of 0.33, and an A/C ratio of 5 (Wang et al., 2006).
The researcher was proposed Portland cement with various amounts of aggregates,
cementitious materials, fibers, and chemical admixtures use to prepare the pervious concrete
mix design. Their results showed that pervious concrete made with single-sized coarse
aggregates had high permeability (0.57 in. /sec) but did not have proper strength. They found
that adding fine sand at approximately 7% by weight of total aggregate enhanced the
compressive strength by 47% while at the same time gave possible water permeability. They
found that coarse aggregate between 9.5 mm to 19 mm obtained important changes in properties
compared to conventional concrete. And also, angular aggregates formed lower density, higher
void content, higher permeability, and lower strength than concrete that used rounded
aggregates in pervious concrete (Sumanasooriya and Neithalath, 2011).

2.2.3 Water-Cement ratio
The water-cement ratio also affects the porosity of the porous concrete. In this research, water-
cement (w/c) ratio used as 0.33 for all the mixtures preparation. They decided the cement
content to provide just enough paste to coat the aggregates. Because too much amount of paste
may drain through the pores of the specimen. It was found using trial and error process, and the
aggregate-cement ratio kept around 5.6 at the 0.33 w/c to achieve this. Mixtures were prepared
by replacing 25, 50, and 75% by weight of the larger sized aggregates by smaller sized
aggregates. To study the impact of sand, # 4 aggregates were replaced by 2.5, 5.0, and 7.5% by
weight of natural sand. Silica fume was added to the mixtures at 6% and 12% to find the effect
of silica fume in pervious concrete properties.
2.2.4 Cement paste content

Cement content is defined as the quantity of cement per unit volume of concrete or mortar. The
cement content of concrete is important from the aspect of durability, impermeability, porosity
and strength. In porous concrete, cement content required to bind the aggregates together. This
is to minimize the occurrence of excess cement paste seeping through the material structure,
reducing its openness (Nelson et al., 1994). The high paste content mixture was obtained low
permeability (high porosity) because of the effect of paste-clogging and it will reduce the
connectivity of pores. For that they found the correction factor for the relationship between
porosity and permeability to scale linearly. The pore connectivity factor increased with
increasing porosity and pore size for both high paste and low paste content mixture. The high
paste content mixture had low connectivity factor because of that paste clogging. It was
confirmed by image analysis. The two porosity determination methods and two different
morphological means of pore size determination methods gives values for both high paste and
low paste content mixture (Sumanasooriya and Neithalath, 2011).
2.3 POROSITY
Porosity is a measure of the void fraction in a material. Voids could either be ‘closed’
(inaccessible) or ‘open’ (connected to other voids and thence to the exterior of the material)
(Kuang et al., 2011). The porosity of pervious concrete is a function of the concrete materials,
their proportions, and the compaction procedures. The typical porosity of pervious concrete
ranges from 15% to 30% (Neithalath and Deo, 2011). Porosity affects the properties of pervious
concrete, including compressive strength, flexural strength, permeability, and storage capacity,
and is regarded as an important parameter in many design calculations (Montes et al. 2005).
Porosity can be measured using the water displacement method proposed by Montes. The
relationship between the porosity of pervious concrete has been discussed in several studies
such as ACI 2006, Low et al. 2008, Kevern 2006, Schaefer et al. 2006, and Montes et al. 2005.
2.3.1 Total porosity

The strength of the porous concrete was mainly affected by the overall voids of the porous
concrete (Lian et al., 2011). In the research paper, total porosity was determined through the
following steps. First, they measured the dry mass and saturated surface-dried mass of the
specimen (weighed in water and air). After that they calculated the density and apparent density
from parameters from the previous step and calculation of solid material volume with a basic
formula for density and isolated pore volume with a basic formula for apparent density (assume
the total volume of the specimen was a sum of solid material volume, isolated pore volume, and
connected pore volume). In additionally porosity was determined by Avizo Fire 3D image
analysis software (Ćosić et al., 2015).
The method of volumetric porosity determined, directly quantified the volume of the sample
(according to the average of four measurements of the height and diameter) and weigh of the
dry and submerged sample in water. Firstly, using volumetric method the submerged weight
was measured (After soaking the cylinder for 30 min). To release any trapped air, they tapped
to the sample. The sample was submerged for short period time (5 min) to apply a vacuum and
vibration. The soaking and vacuum are used to remove any trapped air from the sample. Finally,
the porosity was found using following equation.
A−D
ϕ= 1 − ῥ𝐻2𝑂𝑉 X100 (2.1)
Here dry mass A, and submerged mass D, pH2O is the density of water and V is the volume of
the sample.
The vacuum sealing device uses another method to find the volume. The porosity was found as;
SG2−SG1
ϕ= X 100 (2.2)
SG2
Bulk specific gravity (SG1);

A
SG1 = B−A (2.3)
B−E−
FT
Apparent specific gravity (SG2);

A
SG2 = B−A (2.4)
B−C−
FT1
Where B is vacuum sealed inside a bag having a mass, E is weighed submerged underwater
both sealed, and C is unsealed. FT and FT1 are the apparent specific gravity of the plastic sealing
material when sealed and unsealed, respectively (Martin Iii et al., 2013).

2.3.2 Effective porosity
Effective porosity is that portion of the total void space of a porous material that are
interconnected and capable of transmitting a fluid. In this study, effective porosity measured by
using testing displacement of the water volume in the specimens. Firstly, the specimen was
dried at 110 C, after that the specimen was immersed in water for 24 hours. Then measure the
difference between the water level before and after submersed the specimen. Finally, using the
equation researchers find out the effective porosity (Lian et al., 2011). In another study, the
specimen was hanging into the container and known volume of water added incrementally into
the container. The relationship between the volume of water added and the variation in the water
level height allowed a porosity value found at incremental distances along the specimen’s
height. But, De Somer and De Winne reported some problems with this method. The capillary
action of the water caused extra water take up by the sample. It makes the porosity appear lower
at actually it is than at that point. Additionally, the sample was slowly submerged, some pores
entrap air released. Also, using other porosity testing methods, it can be lower the measured
porosity values (Sumanasooriya and Neithalath, 2011).
2.4 POROSITY DISTRIBUTION

2.4.1. Pore size distribution
The pore size was determined using the image analysis from the porosity measurements. To get
the measurements they were using the middle three slices from each specimen. The maximum
and minimum diameters of the each of the selected pores were observed. The average of all the
pore sizes greater than 1mm was selected as an assumption of the representative pore size of
the specimen. The 1mm threshold was used to find the imaging process records a large number
of features of size less than 1mm. In this research they considered, the analysis will always
result in an average size that does not relate to the physical sizes present in the arrangement.
This research, pore sizes determined by only estimations to provide an indicator of the sizes of
the pores in the arrangement. Finally, they come up with different methods for comparing pore
distribution of systems with varying aggregate sizes and mixtures (Zingg et al., 2016).
This research obtained that the size of the largest pores increases with increasing the pore
particles size for the specimen, identify the pore size distribution ranges are increased. The pores
in those specimens composed of smaller particles shows thinner distribution. For an example,
more than 90% of the pores volume relates to pores smaller than 1.08 mm. few pores (less than
2%) are larger than 2 mm. The pore size distribution ranges wider because the pore particles in
samples are coarser and the pore shapes are more irregular. In this research, compared with
other models, the Gauss distribution is most suitable to predict these processes. From statistical
analysis, the mean diameter can be found. Finally, they observed that the mean diameter of the
pores increases with increasing the pore particles size for the specimen (Akand et al., 2016).
Figure 2.1: Methods used to determine pore size distribution
2.4.2. Vertical porosity distribution

In past studies porosity distribution in the specimens was neglected. They only determined a
relationship between porosity and permeability. Mostly these studies used specimens that were
compacted in some method. Because of that porosity distributions were happen in the
specimens. To design a non-uniformed permeability– porosity relationship the 2.5 cm slices
from the cylinders specimen where used. Because the individual slices have less thickness, the
porosity distribution across cutting surface area is negligible which design uniform specimens.
Only the inner slices were used to avoid more variations in porosity present at the ends of the
samples(Martin Iii et al., 2014).
Another research they only used inside slices to avoid higher variations in porosity at the ends
of the samples. Using image processing data, they plotted, measured permeability with the
measured porosity for the specimens that had a vertical porosity distribution. The permeability
of the compacted samples mostly collapses below the permeability of the individual slices. That

means that although a slice and a cylinder have the same porosity. The vertical porosity
distribution in a cylinder acts to reduce the overall permeability. In this study, their permeability
was definitely lower than the designed specimens. Finally, they conclude that both the
compaction method and mean porosity effect the impact of a vertical porosity distribution on
the permeability.
2.4.3. Horizontal porosity distribution

In past studies, they only determined the horizontal total porosity. But they did not consider the
horizontal porosity distribution but they consider the vertical porosity distribution. Horizontal
porosity distribution important than vertical porosity distribution and pore connectivity. If the
horizontal porosity distribution will analysis properly then only the heat transferring process
and permeability in porous pavement will occurs properly. The horizontal porosity distribution
differs from vertical porosity distribution, in vertical porosity distribution, they had analyzed
only area, volume and porosity of connected pores. But in horizontal porosity distribution, we
have to consider the area, volume and porosity of the non-connected pores (individual pores)
show the figure 2.2.
Individual pores
Figure 2.2: Horizontal plane
When build the wall or pavement we select the concrete cylinder randomly and build that one
together. So, we don’t know the individual pores will connect or not. That’s wise we have to
consider the factors of individual pores show the figure 2.3.
Figure 2.3: Non-load bearing walls

We can do the horizontal porosity distribution by using Image analysis toolbox to find out the
individual pore diameter, pores areas and space between areas.
2.5. PORES CONNECTIVITY

Pore connectivity is one of the most important factors in the pore structures. Pore connectivity
has the most important contribution to the transport of fluids. Pore connectivity is defined as
the volume of identified pore voxels belonging to the groups that connected to both top and
bottom surfaces to the total pore voxels. Previous studies have investigated the pore
connectivity of porous media by different methods, such as coordination number. In this study,
using MATLAB they developed the programme on the basis of cluster-labeling algorithm,
which was proposed by HOSHEN and KOPELMAN. Then they applied by AL-RAOUSH and
WILLSON and ZHANG to analyze the connectivity of pores in 3D volume. They identified the
connected voxels using this algorithm, only those connected voxels that share a common
surface. If a pore voxel creates face-to-face contact with the near voxels, they are identified as
same group. The main target of their project is to identify the connected paths in the 3D binary
volume with different groups. And also, they identified which groups are connected to both top
and bottom surfaces of the specimen (Neithalath et al., 2010).
2.6. METHODS
Methodology used for find out the required pore structure parameter. In this section cover,
preparation of the sample, CT scanning and image processing.

Figure 2.4: Method for finding pore structure parameter
2.6.1. Sample preparation

The sample was prepared according to the mix design. After that the sample was cut in half
vertically through the middle for using image analysis. The cut surface was painted with black
spray paint for get dark pores sample. After drying the sample, the cut face was painted with
white opaque oil-based paint pen. Make sure the paint didn’t go to inside the pores surfaces.
Care should be used during painting. The process is repeatable as per it is clear which areas
should be painted. When sample always can be repainted, white paint get into a pore sample
(Martin Iii et al., 2013).
2.6.2. CT scanning
One of the research, specimens were scanned using a medical CT scanner, model SOMATOM
Sensation 16. During scanning, the CT scanner was functioned at 120 kV and 330 mA. The 3D
image of the specimens and its vertical profile found by the image processing system of the CT
scanner. Each specimen included about 80 cross-sectional images (Kayhanian et al., 2012).
2.6.3. Image analysis

Image processing method is easy to studying the images of concrete and can be captured and
analyzed the features of pervious concrete. In past studies, the image analysis was mainly used
for finding the pores size, space between pores, pores area, connectivity of the pores and vertical

porosity distribution by using MATLAB, image j, Avizo Fire 3D and etc. In this research study,
researchers used software as MATLAB image analysis toolbox (Neithalath et al., 2010).
To measure the vertical pore distribution, using MATLAB they found the areal porosity (ratio
between the area of the pores and the total area of the sample) to each pixel row in the image.
The result porosities have many fluctuations and that was not a statistically accurate
representation of the horizontal slice porosity in the material at that point. Because of that they
could not predict the porosity distribution. To smooth the fluctuations of the porosity
distribution, porosity must be increased in sample. However, the larger an area used, the less
resolution the porosity distribution has.
The representative elemental area (REA) means the smallest area that yields a representative
porosity value for that location in the sample. This concept is similar to that of a representative
elemental volume (REV), but the porosity is being estimated by an area ratio in this case. It is
important to note that the wider a sample is, the rarer pixel rows need to be averaged to reach a
given REA. Assuming the two samples have the same REA. The recommendation for the REA
presented by Sumanasooriya and Neithalath (which they refer to as the representative area
elements [RAE]) is simply that it needs to be much larger than the usual pore size. While this
may be suitable for finding average properties from an image, finding a porosity distribution
requires that the REA be as small as possible (to provide maximum spatial resolution), While
still being large enough to be representative of the local porosity (Martin Iii et al., 2013).
2.6.3.1. Pore size characterization from area histogram

The most common method to characterize pores is to use an area histogram to extract
information on the pore size distribution from image analysis of planar sections. Each pore is
considered an individual feature and its area is found by counting the number of pixels contained
within it. Its equivalent diameter is found by relating this area to the formula A=pi*d2/4. This
method can cause erroneous results when there are highly connected pores. An effective pore
size (d50) is defined as the pore size corresponding to 50% of the cumulative frequency
distribution (Sumanasooriya and Neithalath, 2011).
2.6.3.2. Thresholding
Simply we can say thresholding is if pixel value is greater than a threshold values, it is assigned
one value (may be white), else it is assigned another value (may be black). In this research paper
firstly, all the raw gray scale images were cropped into 236 pixels×236 pixels square images.
The next step was to develop and implement an appropriate segmentation algorithm for the

datasets to accurately confirm. All pixel was occupied by the pore phase or the solid. They
identify the solid phase and pore phase using thresholding based on the gray level histograms
of the images. In this research Otsu’s method was used as manual thresholding method. That is
one of automatic threshold selection methods. After that the volume of the porosity, pore size
distribution, and degree of pore connectivity was calculated using the 3D binary volume (4).
Most grayscale images have 8 pixels that consist of values that range from 1 to 255. A
thresholding value is chosen and any value less than it becomes zero and value greater than it
becomes 255 (Chung et al., 2014).
2.6.3.3. Specific Surface Area and Mean Free Spacing

Specific surface area is a vital parameter and it can be used to characterize a porous concrete.
Its measured total surface area of the pores per unit volume of specimen. It is required when
using the Kozeny-Carmen equations for calculating permeability. (Berryman & Blair, 1986)
Let Specific surface area be the surface area of the pores and volume be the total volume of the
pervious concrete. In this case the mean free spacing of pores found using a stereological
method or two-point correlation method. The perimeter of the pore structures per unit area of
the image and the pore area fraction are used to calculate the mean free spacing parameter. This
parameter is defined as the average value of the surface to surface distances between all the
neighboring pores (Sumanasooriya and Neithalath, 2011).
2.7. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Using the data which we find in MATLAB, we have to develop the random models to predict
porosity in pores concrete. For that we use stochastics and Monte Carlo method as statistic
methods. In this study, statistical analyses were done to measure the field permeability. For that
data was collected such as annual maximum and average temperature, annual average and
maximum rainfall, total weight of the sediment per parking lots area and etc (Deo and
Neithalath, 2010).
2.7.1. Stereological Methods

Image processing is generally defined as extraction of useful data from a digital image. It could
be used to measure different compounds of concrete and also characterize the pore structure.
Definition of stereology is a body of mathematical methods. It is related three dimensional
parameters that define the structure to two dimensional measurements obtained from digital
image representations of vertical cross sections of the specimen of pore area. It is an unbiased
statistical method used for characterize the length, relative number, volume of features in a

microstructure, and surface area without assumptions concerning size, shape, orientation and
location of the features. In practice, it is a technique that allows the accurate estimation of three
dimensional structural parameters and their standard deviations from two-dimensional
projections (Rehder et al., 2014).
2.7.2. Two Point Correlation function

A two-point correlation function is the probability that a straight line of length l and angle theta
is randomly placed on a two-dimensional binary image of a microstructure and that both of its
ends are contained in the particular phase of interest for a two-phase microstructure. Theta is
the angle of the line between the X-axis of the XY coordinate system or the angle in a polar
coordinate system (Chung et al., 2016).
2.7.3. Morphological methods

Morphological methods are based on mathematical theory, techniques for the analysis,
processing of geometrical structures and are most frequently applied to digital images. While it
is subjected to a vertical transformation, it provides a quantitative description based on
quantifying the variations in the binary image (Rehder et al., 2014).
2.7.4. Granulometry
A granulometric analysis is a general method that could be used individualistically of the nature
of the image set. It is a method to calculate a size distribution of grains, phases and pores in a
binary image. A structuring element was used such as the circular pore’s diameter and these are
used for opening the pixels of the region of pore area that are contained within the size of the
porous concrete (Golroo and Tighe, 2011). After an opening operation, the pore area fraction
could be plotted verses the size of the structuring element (Martin and Putman, 2016).
2.7.5. Statistical Representation of Pore Size Distribution in Pervious Concretes

The pore size distribution of pores in such a medium is importance when it is usual to represent
the pores in an arbitrary porous medium using a pore characteristic. While the medium is
heterogeneous, it is particularly true and the feast of the pore sizes is large. In such cases, a
single value of pore size by itself might not adequately represent the system behavior. Pore size
distribution, along with the degree of connectedness of the pore system, also influences the
properties of a porous material such as pervious concrete. Pore size distribution functions could
also aid in the development of larger mathematical models for predicting material properties.
Distribution of pore size (or pore area) calculated based on two-dimensional image have been
used to predict the three-dimensional (volumetric) distribution of pores using Saltykov analysis.

And hence for help in computational microstructural reconstruction. The distribution of pore
size in conventional cement pastes and mortars had been modeled using lognormal or compound
log-normal distributions. In this study, a two-parameter Weibull distribution was chosen to the
pore size distribution in porous concretes for the following reasons:
1. Weibull distribution could estimate some other statistical distributions based on the
value of the Weibull shape parameter.
2. It could be used with small sample sizes.
3. Weibull distribution can provide extra flexibility for an accurate analysis while an
exponential distribution might be acceptable (Bhutta et al., 2012).
2.8. SUMMARY OF THE LITERATURE REVIEW

This chapter has provided a critical review of some of the relevant literature in the areas of
general aspects of pores connectivity, horizontal and vertical porosity distribution, fundamental
equation for the porosity distribution of porous concrete. If aggregate size is increase the
porosity will reduce. Most of the research paper the researcher takes the W/C ratio as 0.33 and
low W/C ratio have high porosity. The A/C ratio is varied with the research paper to paper. In
the laboratory experiment only we can measure the effective porosity after measure the effective
porosity using equation to find out the total porosity. For image processing, we can use only
total porosity can’t use the effective porosity.
The pore size distribution ranges wider because the pore particles in samples are coarser and
the pore shapes are more irregular. In the past research, compared with other models the Gauss
distribution is most suitable to predict these processes. The researchers measured permeability
with the measured porosity for the specimens that had a vertical porosity distribution by using
image processing data. The vertical porosity distribution in a cylinder acts to reduce the overall
permeability. Pore connectivity has the most important contribution to the transport of fluids.
In previous studies, the researchers identified the connected voxels using this algorithm, only
those connected voxels that share a common surface.
In past studies, the image analysis was mainly used for finding the pores size, space between
pores, pores area, connectivity of the pores and vertical porosity distribution by using
MATLAB, image j, Avizo Fire 3D and etc. Before the image analysis, sample was prepared
according to the mix design and cut the specimen to 3 or 4 slices then it was painted.
The most common method to characterize pores is to use an area histogram to extract
information on the pore size distribution from image analysis of planar sections. Each pore is

considered an individual feature and its area is found by counting the number of pixels contained
within it. Its equivalent diameter is found by relating this area to the formula A=pi*d2/4.
Specific surface area is a vital parameter and it can be used to characterize a porous concrete.
Its measured total surface area of the pores per unit volume of specimen. It is required when
using the Kozeny-Carmen equations for calculating permeability.
In previous studies the authors used statistical analysis method as stereological methods, two-
point correlation function, morphological methods and Granulometry.
Biggest gap of the above research article; in past studies, they only determined the horizontal
total porosity. But they did not consider the horizontal porosity distribution but they consider
the vertical porosity distribution. Horizontal porosity distribution important than vertical
porosity distribution and pore connectivity. If the horizontal porosity distribution will analysis
properly then only the heat transferring process and permeability in porous pavement will
occurs properly. The horizontal porosity distribution differs from vertical porosity distribution,
in vertical porosity distribution, they had analyzed only area, volume and porosity of connected
pores. But in horizontal porosity distribution, we have to consider the area, volume and porosity
of the non-connected pores (individual pores).
From this literature review we got some idea to do our research project. Its help to us to do the
good research on void ratio and effective porosity profiling for porous concrete. This literature
review has served as the basis in defining the scope of this research work.

3. CHAPTER III - METHODOLOGY
3.1 BACKGROUND
The methodology includes the criteria that had been used to fulfill the research objectives. The
research study focuses on void ratio and effective porosity profiling for porous concrete, for
application as non-load bearing walls. Outline of the research shown in Figure 3-1.
Figure 3.1: Outline of the research flowchart

3.2 CRITICAL REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Porous concrete (Enhanced porosity concrete) is proportioned using gap-grading the coarse
aggregates and absence of fine aggregate. Normally conventional concretes which are designed
for the lowest porosity, pervious concretes are designed for a high porosity, and a high degree
of interconnected pore structure (Nguyen et al., 2014). From the literature review got the
knowledge about needed material, mix design, important factors affect the porosity, quantify
the porosity, porous connectivity, vertical and horizontal porosity distribution, methods and
statistical analysis.
Most of the research paper the researcher takes the W/C ratio as 0.33 and low W/C ratio have
high porosity (Wang et al., 2006). The A/C ratio is varied with the research paper to paper. If
aggregate size is increase the porosity will reduce (Neithalath et al., 2010). The pore size
distribution ranges wider because the pore particles in samples are coarser and the pore shapes
are more irregular. Compared with other models the Gauss distribution is most suitable to
predict these processes (Sumanasooriya and Neithalath, 2011). The researchers measured
permeability with the measured porosity for the specimens that had a vertical porosity
distribution by using image processing data. The vertical porosity distribution in a cylinder acts
to reduce the overall permeability (Zingg et al., 2016). Pore connectivity has the most important
contribution to the transport of fluids. In previous studies, the researchers identified the
connected voxels using this algorithm, only those connected voxels that share a common surface
(Neithalath et al., 2010). MATLAB, Image J, Avizo Fire 3D image processing software were
used for image analysis (Ćosić et al., 2015). From considered those factors formulated the
methodology in this research.
3.3 USED MATERIAL
Some of the material such as cement, aggregate, water and paint were used for the research
project.
Cement : Ordinary Portland cement (OPC) as specified in Sri Lankan standard 855:1989
was used (Dolage, et al., 2015).
Aggregate : Size of the aggregate 10mm-14mm and 14mm-20mm.
Water : Fresh, colorless, odorless and tasteless potable water that was collected from
University of Jaffna, Faculty of Engineering’s water pipe.
Paint : Black premium quality aerosol spray paint and White banner paint were used.

(a) (b) (c)
Figure 3.2: Aggregate (a), Cement (b), Paint (c)
3.4 SIEVE ANALYSIS
Normally sieve analysis done by using of sieve mesh and sieve apparatus. When plot the particle
size distribution curve difficult to get the accurate distribution curve, in order to solve the
limitations image analysis method used and the accurate distribution between the aggregate
sizes were gotten.
Figure 3.3: Sieve mesh and sieve apparatus
The sample was taken from the one cube aggregate and it was mixed properly for the analyzing
purpose after that it sieved between the range of 10mm to 14mm and 14mm to 20mm, finally
10kg aggregate was taken from those samples for the testing purpose. This method applicable
for other ranges also. Tripod had to set an appropriate height with white sheet fully covered and
camera was set to horizontal, height of the tripod and level of camera should be in same level
until the experiments finished. The known dimension white sheet should be keep in under the
tripod to fully covered by camera while taking photos and white sheet also keep in same place
until the experiments. Aggregates was placed randomly on the white sheet without touch the
particles and the photo was taken. Same aggregate used for accurate measurement with
arranging in raw and take the photo. Particles diameter was taken by inserting of taken photos
in image J software. Particle weight was measured by getting of diameter and particles
considered as spherical shape. Difference between the total actual weight of the samples and
total weight of the aggregate which was calculated according to the diameter calculated. The
difference was distributed by considering of diameter and number of same diameter particles in
weight of the aggregates. Diameter of the particle, number of particles each diameter and
corrected weight was taken in one table. Particle size distribution curve was plotted in MS
EXCEL by considering of diameter. The Particle size distribution curve was plotted in several
intervals of diameter such as, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.5, and 1. The accurate curve was selected for the
average diameter calculation. Finally, particle size distribution curve and average diameter was
selected.
Figure 3.4: Image processing for the aggregate size distribution
3.5 MIX DESIGN
The pervious concrete was prepared using Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) and coarse
aggregates. The most common aggregate sizes used are passing 14 mm, retained on 10 mm
sieve, or passing 20 mm, retained on 14 mm sieve. Therefore, two different aggregate sizes
were sieved and separated. Maintaining a large open porosity necessitates a low water-to-
cement ratio (w/c of 0.33) and the absence of fine aggregates. First aggregate, cement and water
were mixed according to the mix proportion using cement concrete mixer and manually. Then
molds were cleaned properly and a layer of oil was applied each mold for the removing purpose.
After that mixed concrete was put into the molds and give the blows according to the mix design
using steel rod. A total of 72 cubes were prepared with dimension of 150×150×150 mm³.

Labeled the cubes for identify the mix design before the cubes drying. Molds were removed
after 24 hours and cubes were kept in curing chamber 7 days before the respective tests were
carried out. The Figure 3.5 shows the mix design progress.
Figure 3.5: Aggregate sieving (a), Mixing (b), Place into the mold with blows (c), Labeling (d)
and Water curing (e)
Eight porous concrete mixes using different gradations use to develop and calibrate the image
analysis method for vertical and horizontal porosity distribution and connectivity between
pores. Six cubes made from each of the twelve mixes shown in Table 3.1.
Table 3.1: Mix proportions for twelve sets of pervious concrete
Mixture W/C A/C ratio Aggregate No of

ratio size Blows
Mix 01 0.33 2.5 10-14 0
Mix 02 0.33 2.5 10-14 5
Mix 03 0.33 2.5 14-20 0
Mix 04 0.33 2.5 14-20 5
Mix 05 0.33 5 10-14 0
Mix 06 0.33 5 10-14 5
Mix 07 0.33 5 14-20 0
Mix 08 0.33 5 14-20 5

3.6 COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH TESTING
Compressive strength of porous concrete varies from 3 MPa to 28 MPa the mean value of the
compressive strength 4.2 MPa. Two specimens from each proportion was tested after 7 days
from casting. Porous cubes were placed between rigid plates of the universal axial testing
machine. The loading speed of the compression machine was maintained at 5-7 KN/s during
the cube crushing. Casted porous cubes for each proportion were tested by using compression
testing machine under axial loading according to European standards (EN 1926, 1999) as shown
in Figure 3.6. (European, 2006)
Figure 3.6: Testing the compressive strength
While porous cube got failure, maximum applied load was recorded from the machine and
corresponding compressive strength was calculated by using the Equation 3.1
P
σC = (3.1)
A
Where P is the maximum applied load; A is the area of bed face.
3.7 SAMPLE PREPARATION
To measure the vertical porosity of the porous concrete using image analysis, a cube core was
cut as 10cm diameter cylindrical by using borehole machine. After cutting cubes were washed
and kept in outside until it dry. After that the cut surfaces were painted with black spray paint
(PREMIUM QUALITY AEROSOL SPRAY PAINT) to darken the pores of the sample. After
drying, only surface area was painted with white color paint using BANNER PAINT. Because

of that image processing software can easily identify the pores area. Careful attention will be
taken to make sure this paint did not run into any very small pores or onto the inside surfaces
of the pores. While care must be used during painting, the process is repeatable as it is clear
what areas should be painted and if white paint does get into a pore the sample can always be
repainted. Figure 3-7 shows pictures of one sample before and after painting. Each cylindrical
cube was cut three slices with 40mm thickness for horizontal porosity distribution. After that
slices were painted as above same procedure.
Figure 3.7: Core cutting (a), Drying (b), Black spray (c) and Painting (d).
3.8 EFFECTIVE POROSITY MEASUREMENTS
The porosity of the porous specimens experimentally measures by using a method that
determines the volume of water displaced by a fully submerged cylindrical specimen.
Cylindrical specimen was allowed to air dry overnight. The specimens submerge in a glass tank
of water while placed in a ruler connected to as a scale. Dimension of the glass tank is 300mm
×300mm×300mm. The least count of the scale is 1mm. The volume of connected pores (Vv)
and the specimen volume (Vspecimen) were calculated and the effective porosity (φv) determined
as:
𝑉𝑣
∅𝑣 = 𝑉𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑖𝑚𝑒𝑛 (3.2)
Figure 3.8: Glass with known volume (a), Measure the porosity (b)
3.9 IMAGE PREPARATION
When the 3D image converted into 2D image for find out the area, correction factor must be
considered to avoid the error. For avoided error three methods were used.
First method, the circumference of the cylinder was divided into 1-degree strips and found
correction factor for all angles. After that image also divided according to the angle projection
length and cropped. Then each image segment was analyzed using image-j and all results were
multiplied with correction factor according to the angles. Too much of time consuming for
cropping the image and merge the image and complicated analysis. Thus, this method was
rejected.
Second method, the correction factor is one for projection lengths of 20 degree. A3 sheet was
taken, divided as 20 degrees angle and drew. Likewise, 18 images were taken to cover the all
surface area of the cylinder and it was merged by using merge tool software. After that each
image was analyzed by using image-j software. This method also time-consuming method. So,
this method also was not proceeded.
Figure 3.9: Image preparation for method 02
Finally, the surface of the cylindrical was scanned using panorama to getting 2D images without
any obstacle. When using panorama setting, it needed constant rotational rate. Because of that
10rmp motor (slow rotation), plastic plate and 6V battery were used to make the setup
instruments as shown the figure 3.10. While take the photo make sure the camera should be on
vertical or not and camera fixed in 25cm from center of cube. Panorama images were taken
easily and it take less time consider past methods. Finally, this method was followed to get the
images for image processing.

Figure 3.10: Image preparation for method 03
3.10 IMAGE ANALYSIS
To quantify the space between pores, vertical and horizontal porosity distribution, the areal
porosity (ratio of the area of the pores to the total area of the sample) for each row of pixels in
the image find using MATLAB and ImageJ software. The image was cropped and scanned for
the image analysis. Then cropped image was converted gray scale into binary image. After that
it was threshold until get correct thresholding value. Then scale was set according to the
dimension and analyzed to get the area of the pores by using ImageJ software as shown in figure
3.11.
Figure 3.11: Procedure for image analysis

3.11 QUALITY CONTROL
Quality of the study and acquirement of data were assured by following British standards.
Similar aggregate type, cement and water source were used in throughout in the testing
procedure.
 Concrete casting was done according BS standards standard equipment were used
during measuring, mixing and compaction procedures.
 Concrete test cubes were cured in a curing tank with maintained water level.
 Dimension of the slice cube was constant.
 While taking the photo for the cylindrical, the cubes are marked as 120mm and take
three or more rotation continuously to reduce the error.
3.12 SUMMARY
The aim of this research study is to determine and develop successful porous concrete based on
void ratio and effective porosity profiling for porous concrete. Physical properties of the
resultant mix deign checked for compressive strength. Parameters such as aggregate size,
aggregate content varied initially in order to arrive at a base mix design. The influence of the
composition materials such as aggregate sizes 10-14mm and 14-20mm of several porous
concrete mixtures were investigated using mixtures of different two aggregate sizes, which the
aggregate - cement ratio (2.5 and 5) and the water - cement ratio (0.33) were held constant.
Eight batches were cast for mixing of each aggregate and these included six cubes for a one
batch. Compressive strength test was done on the samples; every samples were tested for each
mix at 7 days of curing period. Quality of data was confirmed by following standard guidelines
specified in British standard codes, laboratory practices for testing. Testing machinery was
calibrated properly to maintain the accuracy of readings obtained.
Each cube was cut as cylindrical; sprayed with black colour spray and painted with white colour
paint. Images were taken for analyze vertical porosity distribution by using panorama. Every
cube was sliced as 40mm for analyze the vertical porosity distribution. After that developed the
equation and validate the model by using stochastics and Monte Carlo method as statistic
methods.

4. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
4.1 INTRODUCTION
In this section covers how well the vertical porosity distributed in the porous concrete for that
variation of pore size distribution, shape factors for each design using image analysis, and
statistical analysis such as correlation. Furthermore pores area variation with A/C ratio,
aggregate size and compaction, vertical pores distribution and finally summary of the results
and discussion. Though the presence of a vertical porosity distribution in porous non-load
bearing wall has been analyzed, the impact of this vertical porosity distribution on the porous
concrete has not been considered. This research investigates the impact of a vertical porosity
distribution on the porous concrete.
4.2 SHAPE FACTOR AND CORRELATION

Shape factors are dimensionless quantities used in image analysis and microscopy that
numerically describe the shape of a particle, independent of its size. Shape factors are calculated
from measured dimensions, diameter, chord lengths, area, perimeter, centroid, moments, etc.
The dimensions of the particles are usually measured from two-dimensional cross-
sections or projections. Shape factor define as the diameter ratio between two related
parameters. Normally all pores are consider as spherical shape but it’s not like. Therefore shape
factor variation was analyzed for each design. In our case, shape factor mean the diameter ratio
between calculated perimeter and actual perimeter. Table 02 shows the shape factor calculation.
Table 4.1: Shape factor for pores using image analysis
Pore Perimete Radius Radius Shape

Area r (mm) (Area)(m (Perimeter) factor
(mm2) m) (mm)
72.07 35.35 4.79 5.63 1.18

49.18 37.10 3.96 5.90 1.49
52.57 28.52 4.09 4.54 1.11
63.52 34.25 4.50 5.45 1.21
71.56 37.52 4.77 5.97 1.25
38.75 28.62 3.51 4.56 1.30
44.52 29.36 3.76 4.67 1.24
58.36 31.50 4.31 5.01 1.16
64.42 34.65 4.52 5.51 1.22
47.54 35.73 3.89 5.69 1.46

With compaction Imaganary variation Without compaction
160
Calculated perimeter (in mm)
120
80
40
Aggregate size (10mm-14mm) Aggregate size (14mm-20mm) Imaginary

160
Calculated perimeter (mm)
120
80
40
0
A/C ratio - 5 A/C ratio- 2.5 Imaginary line
160
Calculated perimeter (mm)
120
80
40
0
0 100 200 300 400 500
Actual perimeter (mm)
Figure 4.1: Variation of Shape factor

Figure 4.1 shows the variation of shape factor affected three factors such as A/C ratio, aggregate
size and compaction. While considering the compacted and without compacted sample; without
compacted sample have more variation compare to compacted sample and compacted sample
variation is near to the imaginary variation. When compaction apply to porous concrete, the
pores are going to reduce. If pore area reduce, pore shape create as spherical because of the
compaction force try to optimize the pore area. Without compaction sample more variation due
to the random arrangement of the pores.
Consider the small aggregate sample and large aggregate sample, small aggregate sample is
near to the imaginary variation because small aggregate packing well and create small pores.
Large aggregate cannot packed well and it will be create irregular shape pores. If increasing a/c
ratio of both sample, the variation of both samples high compare to the less a/c ratio and it differ
from the imaginary line.
Compare the lowest and largest A/C ratio, lowest A/C ratio sample is near to the imaginary
variation due to the less aggregate and more cement paste. If cement content is high, cement
paste can be go in to the pores and reduce the pore area. So pores shape create as spherical. If
a/c ration large, pores create as irregular shape because of the random arrangement of aggregate.
If apply the compaction for this to samples, both shape factors close to the imaginary line
because of compaction create well arrangement of aggregates and reduce the pore area.
Table 4.2 shows the correlation between shape factors for each design. It was analyzed using
SPSS statistical software. Correlation is used to test relationships between quantitative
variables or categorical variables. In other words, it’s a measure of how things are related. The
study of how variables are correlated is called correlation analysis.
Table 4.2: Correlation for shape factor to each design

A correlation coefficient is a way to put a value to the relationship. Correlation coefficients have
a value of between -1 and 1. A “0” means there is no relationship between the variables at all,
while -1 or 1 means that there is a perfect negative or positive correlation. The most common
correlation coefficient is the Pearson Correlation Coefficient. It’s used to test for linear
relationships between data.
Pearson correlation coefficient, two-trail test of significance and flag significant correlations
was analyzed from that Pearson correlation coefficient were not well correlated but some cubes
are correlated them self, two-trail test of significance are almost greater than 0.5 and flag
significant correlations are more than 75% so it’s correlated with each design.
Let’s consider the design 01 and design 02 Pearson correlation coefficient -0.813, so it’s
correlated. And consider the design 01 and design 04 Pearson correlation coefficient 0.526, so
it’s correlated. Furthermore consider the design 02 and design 03 Pearson correlation coefficient
-0.189, so it’s also correlated but other than this other designs were not well correlated.
From the correlation analysis; almost Pearson correlation coefficient, two-trail test of
significance and flag significant correlations correlated, so that let’s take the assumption as all
pores area are spherical shape and the diameter of the pore area is calculated while consider the
pores are circle in two dimensional frame.
4.3 EFFECTIVE POROSITY ANALYSIS

Effective porosity occurs because a fluid in a saturated porous media will not flow through all
voids, but only through the voids which are interconnected. Effective porosity is that portion of
the total void space of a porous material that is capable of transmitting a fluid.
Figure 4.2 shows the effective porosity measurement from the practical and image analysis
calculation. According to the analysis; design 01 have the practical effective porosity as 0.31
but from the image analysis it is varies the range between 0.22 and 0.30 and the average is 0.27.
Design 02 have the practical effective porosity as 0.22 but from the image analysis it is varies
the range between 0.15 and 0.20 and the average is 0.18. Design 03 have the practical effective
porosity as 0.25 but from the image analysis it is varies the range between 0.17 and 0.27 and
the average is 0.23. Design 04 have the practical effective porosity as 0.21 but from the image
analysis it is varies the range between 0.13 and 0.18 and the average is 0.16. Design 05 have
the practical effective porosity as 0.341 but from the image analysis it is varies the range
between 0.32 and 0.39 and the average is 0.35. Design 06 have the practical effective porosity

as 0.35 but from the image analysis it is varies the range between 0.28 and 0.38 and the average
is 0.34. Design 07 have the practical effective porosity as 0.35 but from the image analysis it is
varies the range between 0.25 and 0.34 and the average is 0.30. Design 08 have the practical
effective porosity as 0.30 but from the image analysis it is varies the range between 0.24 and
0.33 and the average is 0.29.
Cube 01 Cube 02 Cube 03 Cube 04 Cube 05 Cube 06 Average

0.45
0.40
0.35
0.30
Effective porosity
0.25
0.20
0.15
0.10
0.05
0.00
Image J
Practical
Practical
Image J
Practical
Image J
Practical
Image J
Practical
Image J
Practical
Image J
Practical
Image J
Practical
Image J
design 01 design 02 design 03 design 04 design 05 design 06 design 07 design 08
Figure 4.2 : Effective porosity analysis from the practical and image analysis
Practical effective porosity and effective porosity from the image analysis are all most same
and the error variation is small. Standard deviation of the variation is within the 95% confident
range. Form that effective porosity is not affected during the practical and image analysis.
4.4 PORE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
The pore size distribution (PSD) is defined as the statistical distribution of the radius of the
largest sphere that can be fitted inside a pore at a given point. Using constrained nonlinear
optimization, we calculate the maximum radius of test particles at random points inside
the pore cavity. Pore size distribution was analyzed by using pores diameter, space between
pores and location of the pores. Horizontal and vertical porosity distribution will be analyzed

from the pore size distribution using statistical analysis. Pore size distribution in a medium can
be obtained from a pore size analyzer.
Cube 01 Cube 02 Cube 03 Cube 04 Cube 05 Cube 06
100
Cumulative pore size distribution
80
60
40
20
100
80
60
40
20
0
0 20 40 60 80 100
Average diameter (mm)
Figure 4.3: Pores size distribution with compaction
Figure 4.2 shows the pore area distribution while changing with the compaction. Graph 01
indicate the mix design 01 and Graph 02 indicate the mix design 02 from that both graph consist
10mm-14mm aggregate size and 2.5 A/C ratio but graph 01 is the without compacted sample
and graph 02 is compacted sample. From the graph, graph 01 have more variation than graph
01, without compacted sample have more variation compare with compacted sample. . Because
during compacting pore sizes going to reduce and cement paste enter the pores. So cumulative
pore sizes less than 20mm diameter is more than 50% in graph 2. From the result, compaction
highly affected to the pore area distribution. Same as mix design 05 and mix design 06.
100
80
60
40
20

100
Cumulative pore size distribution (%)
80
60
40
20
0
0 20 40 60 80 100
Figure 4.4: Pore size distribution change with A/C ratio
Figure 4.3 shows the pore area distribution while changing with the A/C ratio. Graph 01 indicate
the mix design 04 and Graph 02 indicate the mix design 08 from that both graph consist 14mm-
20mm aggregate size and 5 blows compaction but graph01 is the 2.5 A/C ratio sample and graph
02 is 5 A/C ratio sample. According to the graph, graph 02 have more variation than graph 01,
large A/C ratio sample have more variation compare with low A/C ratio sample, because of the
less A/C ration has more cement paste than other design. So cement paste enter in to the pores
and pore area reduced. Then small size diameter pores reduced. From the result, A/C ratio
moderately affected to the pore area distribution. Same as mix design 01 and mix design 05.

100
80
60
(%)
40
20

100
80
60
40
20
0
0 20 40 60 80 100 120
Figure 4.5: Pore size distribution change with aggregate size
Figure 4.4 shows the pore area distribution while changing with the aggregate size. Graph 01
indicate the mix design 05 and Graph 02 indicate the mix design 07 from that both graph consist
without compacted sample and 5 A/C ratio but graph 01 is 10mm-14mm aggregate size sample
and graph 02 is the 14mm-20mm aggregate size sample. From the graph, both graph have more
variation but graph 01 have more variation compare with the graph 02. From the result,
aggregate size rarely affected to the pore area distribution. Same as mix design 01 and mix
design 03.

Conclusion of the pore size distribution analysis; while increasing the compaction of the sample,
pore size distribution is going to be reduce and while reducing the aggregate size of the sample,
pore size distribution is going to be reduce. Furthermore increasing the A/C ratio of the sample,
pore size distribution is going to be increase.
4.5 PORES AREA VARIATION WITH A/C, AGGREGATE SIZE & COMPACTION
Pores area is varied by changing the mix design factors such as A/C ratio, aggregate size and
compaction. This heading include variation of pores area with A/C ratio, variation of pores area
with compaction and variation of pores area with aggregate size.
Table 4.3 shows the total pores area details for each designs from the table design 05 have
largest pores area and design 04 have low pores area. While consider the each of the design the
pores area range increasing D4 < D2 < D3 < D1 < D8< D7 < D5 < D6. Form the results; when
increasing the A/C ratio, total pores area also significantly increased.
Table 4.3: Total pores area for each design
D1 D2 D3 D4 D5 D6 D7 D8
C1 127.15 92.88 81.36 75.84 163.78 180.71 161.05 133.82
C2 137.25 83.60 123.30 79.86 160.05 173.16 143.59 115.27
C3 131.62 71.51 125.88 67.45 156.13 145.04 129.47 169.02
C4 129.66 78.76 92.24 62.40 164.21 180.97 138.10 127.00
C5 102.35 107.57 114.84 68.16 182.73 161.80 145.60 156.67
C6 141.01 81.80 106.42 85.93 149.09 131.03 119.80 119.17
AVE 128.18 86.02 107.34 73.27 162.67 162.12 139.60 136.82

4.5.1 Variation with Pores area and Aggregate-cement ratio
Mix design 01 Mix design 05

200
160
Total pores area (cm2)
120
80
40
Mix design 03 Mix design 07

200
Total pores area (cm2)
160
120
80
40
0
0 1 2 3 4 5 6
Averege- Cement ratio
Figure 4.6: Pores area Vs A/C ratio
Figure 4.1 shows the pores area varies with different Aggregate - Cement ratio but constant
aggregate size (10mm-14mm and 14mm-20mm), W/C ratio and compaction. Mix design 01
and mix design 03 graph indicate the aggregate size 2.5 A/C ratio and mix design 05 and mix
design 07 graph indicate the 5 A/C ratio. According to the result when A/C ratio is high then
pore area increases so porosity distribution also will increase while increasing the A/C ratio.

4.5.2. Variation with Pores area and Aggregate size
Mix design 01 Mix design 05 Mix design 03 Mix design 07
200.00
160.00
Pores area (cm2)
120.00
80.00
40.00
0.00

200.00
160.00
Pores area (cm2)
120.00
80.00
40.00
0.00
0 5 10 15 20
Aggregate size (mm)
Figure 4.7: Pores area Vs Aggregate size
Figure 4.2 shows the pores area varies with different aggregate size but constant A/C ratio, W/C
ratio and compaction. Mix design 01, 02, 03 and 04 graphs indicate the 2.5 A/C ratio and mix
design 05, 06, 07 and 08 graphs indicate the 5 A/C ratio. According to the result when Aggregate
size is low then pore area increases so porosity distribution also will increase while reducing
the aggregate size.

4.5.3 Variation with Pores area and Compaction

160.00
120.00
Pores area (cm2)
80.00
40.00
0.00
Mix Design 05 Mix design 07 Mix design 06 Mix design 08

200.00
160.00
Pores area (cm2)
120.00
80.00
40.00
0.00
0 1 2 3 4 5 6
Compaction
Figure 4.8: Pores area Vs Compaction
Figure 4.3 shows the pores area varies with different compaction but constant A/C ratio, W/C
ratio and aggregate size. Mix design 01, 02, 05 and 06 graphs indicate the 10mm-14mm
aggregate size and mix design 03, 04, 07 and 08 graphs indicate the 14mm-20mm aggregate
size. According to the result when Compaction is low then pore area increases so porosity
distribution also will increase while reducing the compaction.

4.6 VERTICAL POROSITY DISTRIBUTION
Vertical porosity distribution analysis include two important things such as pore size
distribution analysis and porosity distribution analysis. Below figure shows the vertical pore
size distribution graph;
Design 01 Design 02 Design 03 Design 04
100
80
60
40
20
0
0 20 40 60 80 100
Figure 4.9: Vertical pore size distribution variation
Figure 4.4 show the variation of the vertical pores size distribution, according to the figure 01;
Design 01 & 02 have same A/C ratio (2.5) aggregate sizes but design 01 is without compacted
sample and design 02 is compacted sample from this without compacted sample has more pores
variation compare to the compacted sample. Design 03 & 04 also like Design 01& 02. While
consider the design 01 & 03 same A/C ratio and compaction but different aggregate size, from
this analysis; design 01 (small aggregate size) has more variation compare to the design 03
(Large aggregate size). Design 02 & 04 also like same as design 01 &03. And also consider the
different A/C ratio; lowest (A/C ratio- 2.5) samples have more variation compare to largest
(A/C ratio- 5) samples. In addition, D10, D60 & D90 values were taken from the figure 01,
normally D10 values are converge to one value but consider the D60 value, there was a range
variation. Uniformity coefficient (Cu) is defined as the ratio between D10 and D60. If uniformity
coefficient is high, the pores area for that sample also high.

4.7 SUMMARY
In the results and analysis section; while consider the shape factor, got the result as all pores
area is consider as spherical shape and in the two dimensional it can be circle. Let’s consider
the effective Practical effective porosity and effective porosity from the image analysis are all
most same and the error variation is small. Standard deviation of the variation is within the 95%
confident range. Form that effective porosity is not affected during the practical and image
analysis. Conclusion of the pore size distribution analysis; while increasing the compaction of
the sample, pore size distribution is going to be reduce and while reducing the aggregate size of
the sample, pore size distribution is going to be reduce. Furthermore increasing the A/C ratio of
the sample, pore size distribution is going to be increase.
Vertical pores area distribution mainly depend on aggregate size, A/C ratio and compaction
from the analysis, while A/C ratio increased, pores area also increased, aggregate size and
number of blows increased, pores area will be reduced. A/C ratio mostly affected, aggregate
size comparably less impact on pores area and compaction moderately affected to pores area in
the pores concrete. In addition, if pore size distribution is increased then vertical porosity
distribution also increased. This better understanding of the vertical porosity distribution in
porous concrete for non-load bearing wall.

5. CHAPTER V: CONCLUSIONS AND
RECOMMENDATIONS
Using image analysis to measure the vertical porosity distribution of a porous concrete has been
shown to result. Vertical pores area distribution mainly depend on aggregate size, A/C ratio and
compaction from the analysis, while A/C ratio increased, pores area also increased, aggregate
size and number of blows increased, pores area will be reduced. A/C ratio mostly affected,
aggregate size comparably less impact on pores area and compaction moderately affected to
pores area in the pores concrete. In addition, if pore size distribution is increased then vertical
porosity distribution also increased. This better understanding of the vertical porosity
distribution in porous concrete for non-load bearing walls. Vertical porosity distribution
increasing while using the small aggregate size, large aggregate-cement ratio and without
compacted sample but consider the strength of the porous cube for using non-load bearing walls,
the strength can be in same range. The without compacted samples do not have the strength in
that range so that use the 5 blows compacted sample.
Recommendations for our research is increase the number of samples for each mix designs to
get more consistency data to do the best analysis and do the model validation as well as propose
the equation for vertical porosity distribution. And also increasing the number of mix design
such as used the more different A/C ratio such as 4.5, 5.5, 6.5, 7.5 and 8.5 and find out how the
cement paste affected to the pores area, used the varies aggregate size range. If the aggregate
size range is reduce, porosity variation of porous concrete can be identify due to the aggregate
size variation. And also compaction can be increase to find the effect of compaction in porous
concrete such as increase the no of blows for an example for 10, 15 and 20. If compaction
increase, pore size will be decrease. For Quantify the pores data, propose new method to observe
the micro size pores. It may be reduce the practical errors. When measure the effective porosity
make sure the absorption of the porous concrete to get high precision of effective porosity. In
addition while doing the laboratory experiment, practical error may be occur so reduce the error
as well as possible.

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7. APPENDICES
APPENDIX A
Table A-1: Effective porosity measurement for design 01

Voids Effective
Cube Initial Final Solid Total Pores Effective
Reading reading V Total V Porosity Porosity
no area area
(cm) (cm) (cm^3) V(cm^3) (cm^3) (practical) (image J)
1 19.4 20.3 810 1178.57 368.57 0.31 471.24 127.15 0.27
2 19.4 20.3 810 1178.57 368.57 0.31 471.24 137.25 0.29
3 19.3 20.2 810 1178.57 368.57 0.31 471.24 131.62 0.28
4 19.3 20.2 810 1178.57 368.57 0.31 471.24 129.66 0.28
5 19.2 20.1 810 1178.57 368.57 0.31 471.24 102.35 0.22
6 19.1 20 810 1178.57 368.57 0.31 471.24 141.01 0.30

Effective
Voids Effective
Cube Initial Final Solid Total Pores Porosity
V Porosity
no Reading reading V Total area area (image
(cm^3) (practical)
(cm) (cm) (cm^3) V(cm^3) J)
1 16 16.9 810 1178.57 368.57 0.31 471.24 92.88 0.20
2 15.8 16.65 765 1178.57 413.57 0.35 471.24 83.60 0.18
3 15.9 16.75 765 1178.57 413.57 0.35 471.24 71.51 0.15
4 16.5 17.4 810 1178.57 368.57 0.31 471.24 78.76 0.17
5 16.3 17.2 810 1178.57 368.57 0.31 471.24 107.57 0.23
6 16.5 17.3 720 1178.57 458.57 0.39 471.24 81.80 0.17

Effective
Cube Initial Final Solid Voids Total Pores Porosity
no Reading reading V Total V Effective area area (image
(cm) (cm) (cm^3) V(cm^3) (cm^3) Porosity J)
1 19.8 20.8 900 1178.57 278.57 0.24 471.24 81.36 0.17
2 19.7 20.7 900 1178.57 278.57 0.24 471.24 123.30 0.26
3 19.7 20.65 855 1178.57 323.57 0.27 471.24 125.88 0.27
4 19.6 20.55 855 1178.57 323.57 0.27 471.24 92.24 0.20
5 19.5 20.5 900 1178.57 278.57 0.24 471.24 114.84 0.24
6 19.4 20.4 900 1178.57 278.57 0.24 471.24 106.42 0.23

Effective
Voids Effective
V Porosity
(cm^3) (practical)
(cm) (cm) (cm^3) V(cm^3) J)
1 16 16.9 810 1178.57 368.57 0.31 471.24 75.84 0.16
2 15.8 16.65 765 1178.57 413.57 0.35 471.24 79.86 0.17
3 15.9 16.75 765 1178.57 413.57 0.35 471.24 67.45 0.14
4 16.5 17.4 810 1178.57 368.57 0.31 471.24 62.40 0.13
5 16.3 17.2 810 1178.57 368.57 0.31 471.24 68.16 0.14
6 16.5 17.3 720 1178.57 458.57 0.39 471.24 85.93 0.18

Effective
Voids Effective
V Porosity
(cm^3) (practical)
(cm) (cm) (cm^3) V(cm^3) J)
1 16 16.9 810 1178.57 368.57 0.31 471.24 163.78 0.35
2 15.8 16.65 765 1178.57 413.57 0.35 471.24 160.05 0.34
3 15.9 16.75 765 1178.57 413.57 0.35 471.24 156.13 0.33
4 16.5 17.4 810 1178.57 368.57 0.31 471.24 164.21 0.35
5 16.3 17.2 810 1178.57 368.57 0.31 471.24 182.73 0.39
6 16.5 17.3 720 1178.57 458.57 0.39 471.24 149.09 0.32

Effective
Voids Effective
V Porosity
(cm^3) (practical)
(cm) (cm) (cm^3) V(cm^3) J)
1 15.6 16.5 810 1178.57 368.57 0.31 471.24 180.71 0.38
2 15.5 16.4 810 1178.57 368.57 0.31 471.24 173.16 0.37
3 15.45 16.3 765 1178.57 413.57 0.35 471.24 145.04 0.31
4 15.4 16.2 720 1178.57 458.57 0.39 471.24 180.97 0.38
5 15.35 16.1 675 1178.57 503.57 0.43 471.24 161.80 0.34
6 15.3 16.2 810 1178.57 368.57 0.31 471.24 131.03 0.28

Effective
Voids Effective
V Porosity
(cm^3) (practical)
(cm) (cm) (cm^3) V(cm^3) J)
1 16.35 17.2 765 1178.57 413.57 0.35 471.24 161.05 0.34
2 16.4 17.25 765 1178.57 413.57 0.35 471.24 143.59 0.30
3 16.2 17.1 810 1178.57 368.57 0.31 471.24 129.47 0.27
4 16.15 17 765 1178.57 413.57 0.35 471.24 138.10 0.29
5 16.1 16.9 720 1178.57 458.57 0.39 471.24 145.60 0.31
6 16.25 17.1 765 1178.57 413.57 0.35 471.24 119.80 0.25

Effective
Voids Effective
V Porosity
(cm^3) (practical)
(cm) (cm) (cm^3) V(cm^3) J)
1 15.7 16.65 855 1178.57 323.57 0.27 471.24 133.82 0.28
2 15.8 16.75 855 1178.57 323.57 0.27 471.24 115.27 0.24
3 15.75 16.65 810 1178.57 368.57 0.31 471.24 169.02 0.36
4 16 16.9 810 1178.57 368.57 0.31 471.24 127.00 0.27
5 16.5 17.4 810 1178.57 368.57 0.31 471.24 156.67 0.33
6 15.9 16.8 810 1178.57 368.57 0.31 471.24 119.17 0.25

APPENDIX B
Table B-1: Shape factor for design 01

Actual Calculated Shape
No Area Perimeter. perimeter factor
1.00 57.57 40.91 26.90 1.52
2.00 3026.78 904.08 195.07 4.63
3.00 328.88 101.45 64.30 1.58
4.00 1709.93 381.39 146.62 2.60
5.00 6.62 14.08 9.12 1.54
6.00 597.55 213.48 86.67 2.46
7.00 374.54 144.10 68.62 2.10
8.00 26.47 28.84 18.24 1.58
9.00 9.26 14.28 10.79 1.32
10.00 11.25 14.28 11.89 1.20
11.00 61.54 34.68 27.81 1.25
12.00 5.96 10.16 8.65 1.17
13.00 76.76 38.33 31.06 1.23
14.00 11.91 13.61 12.24 1.11
15.00 17.87 16.86 14.99 1.13
16.00 142.94 72.92 42.39 1.72
17.00 8.60 10.16 10.40 0.98
18.00 215.73 123.90 52.08 2.38

1.00 95.27 37.78 24.37 1.55
2.00 228.05 108.97 6.21 17.54
3.00 6.99 10.15 30.68 0.33
4.00 51.86 31.27 16.73 1.87
5.00 43.40 36.56 85.29 0.43
6.00 180.24 60.64 80.29 0.76
7.00 186.86 103.14 11.83 8.72
8.00 23.17 18.78 29.35 0.64
9.00 39.36 25.85 25.24 1.02
10.00 52.97 39.72 7.29 5.45
11.00 5.89 8.93 24.76 0.36
12.00 91.96 53.57 20.55 2.61
13.00 14.71 18.28 65.49 0.28
14.00 33.10 25.35 39.88 0.64
15.00 6.25 9.79 6.59 1.49
16.00 13.98 17.22 39.46 0.44
17.00 1587.54 665.48 9.95 66.90
18.00 19.86 20.29 18.38 1.10
Actual Calculated
No Area Perimeter. perimeter Shape factor
1.00 70.73 33.30 29.82 1.12
2.00 20.31 20.94 15.98 1.31
3.00 27.84 23.90 18.71 1.28
4.00 307.73 132.41 62.20 2.13
5.00 12.79 22.47 12.68 1.77
6.00 103.83 58.13 36.13 1.61
7.00 5.27 9.60 8.14 1.18
8.00 94.80 47.81 34.52 1.38
9.00 67.72 40.87 29.18 1.40
10.00 9.03 10.83 10.65 1.02
11.00 12.04 12.78 12.30 1.04
12.00 217.44 87.74 52.28 1.68
13.00 12.79 13.79 12.68 1.09
14.00 12.04 14.30 12.30 1.16
15.00 29.34 20.94 19.21 1.09
16.00 83.52 48.23 32.40 1.49
17.00 287.41 122.81 60.11 2.04
18.00 33.86 21.87 20.63 1.06

1.00 182.43 61.46 47.89 1.28
2.00 137.58 76.05 41.59 1.83
3.00 30.01 26.40 19.42 1.36
4.00 110.61 57.38 37.29 1.54
5.00 70.14 35.49 29.69 1.20
6.00 16.52 16.14 14.41 1.12
7.00 140.62 63.13 42.04 1.50
8.00 407.36 129.80 71.56 1.81
9.00 25.29 24.90 17.83 1.40
10.00 24.28 21.61 17.47 1.24
11.00 6.41 8.75 8.97 0.98
12.00 5.40 8.41 8.24 1.02
13.00 16.19 15.80 14.26 1.11
14.00 734.12 265.15 96.07 2.76
15.00 698.04 237.23 93.68 2.53
16.00 312.94 157.02 62.72 2.50
17.00 5.40 8.41 8.24 1.02
18.00 12.48 12.52 12.52 1.00

No Area Perimeter. Perimeter factor
1.00 47.23 37.14 24.37 1.52
2.00 3.07 8.21 6.21 1.32
3.00 74.87 59.64 30.68 1.94
4.00 22.27 20.94 16.73 1.25
5.00 578.64 276.01 85.29 3.24
6.00 512.79 230.51 80.29 2.87
7.00 11.14 14.70 11.83 1.24
8.00 68.54 41.22 29.35 1.40
9.00 1655.28 630.71 144.25 4.37
10.00 50.68 35.86 25.24 1.42
11.00 4.22 9.08 7.29 1.25
12.00 48.76 29.77 24.76 1.20
13.00 33.60 22.03 20.55 1.07
14.00 341.15 131.68 65.49 2.01
15.00 126.52 73.38 39.88 1.84
16.00 3.46 8.57 6.59 1.30
17.00 123.83 82.36 39.46 2.09
18.00 7.87 10.94 9.95 1.10

1.00 5.67 10.91 8.44 1.29
2.00 5.67 8.15 8.44 0.97
3.00 7.94 9.66 9.99 0.97
4.00 27.22 19.32 18.50 1.04
5.00 4.54 8.78 7.55 1.16
6.00 5.67 10.91 8.44 1.29
7.00 18.15 16.93 15.10 1.12
8.00 303.94 121.02 61.81 1.96
9.00 4.54 7.53 7.55 1.00
10.00 9.07 11.79 10.68 1.10
11.00 21.55 16.31 16.46 0.99
12.00 87.33 64.35 33.13 1.94
13.00 5.67 10.28 8.44 1.22
14.00 78.25 48.67 31.37 1.55
15.00 88.46 51.42 33.35 1.54
16.00 99.80 71.62 35.42 2.02
17.00 4.54 6.02 7.55 0.80
18.00 4.54 7.53 7.55 1.00

1.00 192.85 96.33 49.24 1.96
2.00 86.54 57.93 32.98 1.76
3.00 32.51 39.34 20.22 1.95
4.00 245.12 122.61 55.51 2.21
5.00 95.33 87.12 34.62 2.52
6.00 631.69 255.88 89.11 2.87
7.00 37.34 37.47 21.67 1.73
8.00 472.67 159.78 77.09 2.07
9.00 3.08 6.95 6.22 1.12
10.00 39.54 42.54 22.29 1.91
11.00 111.14 77.52 37.38 2.07
12.00 3.51 8.28 6.65 1.25
13.00 40.85 24.99 22.66 1.10
14.00 930.40 292.55 108.15 2.70
15.00 8.35 10.93 10.24 1.07
16.00 7.91 10.54 9.97 1.06
17.00 3.95 7.89 7.05 1.12
18.00 998.93 233.55 112.06 2.08

1.00 226.38 86.55 53.35 1.62
2.00 729.91 218.49 95.79 2.28
3.00 72.51 57.83 30.19 1.92
4.00 20.14 19.13 15.91 1.20
5.00 617.12 258.67 88.08 2.94
6.00 50.76 29.07 25.26 1.15
7.00 23.36 17.12 17.14 1.00
8.00 203.83 89.83 50.62 1.77
9.00 3.22 6.35 6.37 1.00
10.00 140.18 51.26 41.98 1.22
11.00 157.10 65.93 44.44 1.48
12.00 216.72 116.67 52.20 2.24
13.00 10.47 11.95 11.47 1.04
14.00 5.64 10.68 8.42 1.27
15.00 23.36 25.26 17.14 1.47
16.00 27.39 23.68 18.56 1.28
17.00 71.70 40.58 30.02 1.35
18.00 210.27 87.64 51.41 1.70

APPENDIX C
100
80
60
40
20
0
0 20 40 60 80 100
Figure C-1: Variation of Cumulative pore size distribution with Average diameter for
Mix design 03
100
80
60
40
20
0
0 20 40 60 80 100 120
Cube 01 Cube 02 Cube 03 Cube 04 Cube 05
Figure C-2: Variation of Cumulative pore size distribution with Average diameter for
Mix design 06


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VOID RATIO AND EFFECTIVE POROSITY PROFILING

FOR POROUS CONCRETE

UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH THESIS SUBMITTED

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 i

J.Jenany (2014/E/013) ..................................

Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 ii

Sections JENANY J. W.P.D.L SILVA

Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 iii

Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 iv

Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 v

Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 vi

CHAPTER I - INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................ 1

1.2 RESEARCH QUESTIONS 2

1.4 AIM AND OBJECTIVES 3

CHAPTER II - LITERATURE REVIEW .......................................................................... 4

2.2 IMPORTANT FACTORS AFFECT THE POROSITY 4

2.2.1 Aggregate type and size .......................................................................................... 4

2.2.2 Aggregate-Cement ratio .......................................................................................... 5

2.2.3 Water-Cement ratio ................................................................................................. 6

2.2.4 Cement paste content .............................................................................................. 6

2.3.1 Total porosity .......................................................................................................... 7

2.3.2 Effective porosity .................................................................................................... 8

2.4 POROSITY DISTRIBUTION 8

2.4.1. Pore size distribution............................................................................................... 8

2.4.2. Vertical porosity distribution .................................................................................. 9

2.4.3. Horizontal porosity distribution ............................................................................ 10

2.5. PORES CONNECTIVITY 11

2.6.1. Sample preparation ............................................................................................... 12

2.6.2. CT scanning .......................................................................................................... 12

2.6.3. Image analysis ....................................................................................................... 12

2.7. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS 14

2.7.1. Stereological Methods........................................................................................... 14

3.7.2. Two Point Correlation function ............................................................................ 15

Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 vii

3.7.4. Granulometry ........................................................................................................ 15

3.7.5. Statistical Representation of Pore Size Distribution in Pervious Concretes ......... 15

3.8. SUMMARY OF THE LITERATURE REVIEW 16

CHAPTER III - METHODOLOGY ................................................................................. 18

3.2 CRITICAL REVIEW OF LITERATURE 19

3.3 USED MATERIAL 19

3.4 SIEVE ANALYSIS 20

3.5 MIX DESIGN 21

3.6 COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH TESTING 23

3.7 SAMPLE PREPARATION 23

3.8 EFFECTIVE POROSITY MEASUREMENTS 24

3.9 IMAGE PREPARATION 25

3.10 IMAGE ANALYSIS 26

3.11 QUALITY CONTROL 27

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION .......................................................................................... 28

4.2 SHAPE FACTOR AND CORRELATION 28

4.3 EFFECTIVE POROSITY ANALYSIS 31

4.4 PORE SIZE DISTRIBUTION 32

4.5.1 Variation with Pores area and Aggregate-cement ratio ........................................ 37

4.5.2. Variation with Pores area and Aggregate size ...................................................... 38

4.5.3 Variation with Pores area and Compaction........................................................... 39

4.6 VERTICAL POROSITY DISTRIBUTION 40

Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 ix

Figure 1.1: Image of pervious concrete ...................................................................................... 1

Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 x

Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 xi

A/C Aggregate-Cement ratio

Civil Engineering Research Thesis : September, 2018 xii