Field Verification of Low-pressure Silane Injection for the Inspection of Concrete Microcracking

Abstract

Two conventional methods are available for the inspection of microcracking in concrete structures: microscopic examination and fluorescent epoxy infiltration. Here, we discuss a third method that utilizes low-pressure injections of silane oligomer into hardened cement paste to make any microcracking within it easily visible. To date, assessment of related materials and techniques has been largely confined to the laboratory. In this study, we conducted a field verification of the proposed method by applying it to the inspection of sidewall cracking within an existing RC open channel.