Development and Application of Non-Destructive Testing Instrument for Wall Impermeability Based on a Water Drenching Method

Abstract

This article introduces a new type of on-site non-destructive testing instrument for the impermeability measurement of walls. The research and development of this instrument is based on the water drenching method. The influence of symmetry is mainly considered in the design process, and it has on-site testing functions such as water pressure adjustment and wind pressure simulation. The water seepage of the four types of masonry walls under the combined working conditions of three levels of spray strength and wind pressure strength was tested by using instruments. The results show that the weak location regarding the impermeability of the masonry wall is the junction of mortar joints. Parameters such as wall leakage time, seepage area and water seepage amount are significantly affected by wind pressure. Furthermore, during on-site inspection, the influence of wind pressure on water seepage conditions must be considered when simulating the real wind-driven rain conditions. The testing instrument will be promoted and used according to the compiled industry regulations.