Research on detection method of concrete compressive strength based on dielectric properties

Compressive strength of concrete structures is a crucial quality parameter that determines their performance throughout lifespan. This study introduces an innovative approach of utilizing electromagnetic nondestructive testing to assess the compressive strength of mature concrete. The dielectric constant and compressive strength of standard specimens were tested by open coaxial probe and pressure testing machine, respectively, using ordinary Portland cement concrete with various water-cement ratios (0.4, 0.45, 0.5, 0.55, 0.6 and 0.65) as the research object. It has been discovered that increasing porosity reduces the number of polarized particles per unit volume of concrete, resulting in a decrease in polarization intensity. This decrease is manifested as a reduction in the dielectric constant in macro parameters. The relationship between porosity and dielectric constant was characterized using a series-parallel composite concrete dielectric model. Additionally, as porosity increases, the compressive strength of concrete decreases exponentially. By considering porosity as an intermediate variable, a concrete compressive strength model based on the dielectric constant was established. The model exhibits an average error of 3.62%, indicating the precise characterization of concrete's compressive strength using the dielectric constant. This model can serve as a theoretical basis for the implementation of electromagnetic nondestructive testing techniques in strength evaluation. •The compressive strength and dielectric constant of mature concrete are inextricably linked.•Series parallel composite dielectric model of concrete based on Abstraction concept of structure.•Concrete compressive strength and porosity have an exponential function connection.•Create a concrete compressive strength model based on dielectric properties using porosity as an intermediate variable.