Optimizing Permeability in Pervious Concrete: Effects of Aggregate Composition and Supplementary Materials

Abstract

This study investigates the permeability characteristics of pervious concrete through the analysis of three different mixtures. Mix#1, devoid of fine aggregate (sand), showed relatively higher permeability values ranging from 0.93 cm/s to 1.03 cm/s, indicating the presence of interconnected void spaces within the concrete matrix. Mix#2, incorporating 5% sand, demonstrated reduced permeability compared to Mix#1, highlighting the denser matrix resulting from the inclusion of fine aggregate. Mix#3, which included Class F fly ash alongside sand and varied water-cement ratios, exhibited further reductions in permeability, suggesting the beneficial effects of supplementary materials in enhancing cohesion and reducing porosity. These findings underscore the importance of meticulous mixture design to achieve desired permeability levels for applications such as pervious pavements and sustainable drainage systems. Understanding the influence of composition on permeability enables engineers to tailor concrete mixtures for optimal performance in various environmental conditions, contributing to the development of sustainable infrastructure. Further research is recommended to explore additional factors affecting permeability and refine mixture designs for specific applications.