MODELING THE ELECTROMAGNETIC PROPERTIES OF CONCRETE

Models are presented to predict the velocity and attenuation of electromagnetic waves in concrete as a function of frequency, temperature, moisture content, chloride content, and concrete mix constituents. The electromagnetic properties of concrete are predicted by aggregating the individual properties of its constituents: water, salt, air, cement paste, and aggregate solids. The mixture models have been used as a basis for parametric studies which show the sensitivity of the electromagnetic properties to these constituents. An experimental study has been carried out to confirm the predictions of the theoretical models. Results predicted by these models have been found to compare favorably with those obtained from laboratory experiments.