Overview
ISO/TS 16774-6:2017 specifies a laboratory test method for evaluating the response of water‑leakage crack repair materials to substrate (crack) movement in underground concrete structures. The standard combines a simulated substrate‑movement (tensile/compressive cycling) procedure with a subsequent permeability test on specimens containing an artificial crack injected with the repair material. Results are intended for comparative performance evaluation of injection‑type waterproofing repair products under defined national testing parameters.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Test principle: apply cyclic tensile/compressive stress to an injected specimen, then measure permeability to detect loss of waterproofing.
- Specimen preparation: two flat cylindrical concrete/mortar parts form an artificial crack; mix ratio example given (water : cement : fine aggregate = 1 : 2 : 6) and typical curing ~72 h (subject to national parameters). Pinholes (Ø 2.5 mm) are provided to observe leakage and facilitate injection.
- Apparatus: a substrate‑movement apparatus (a Universal Testing Machine is recommended), air compressor and a permeability test chamber. Pressure and cycle parameters are set according to national testing requirements.
- Procedure: inject repair material into the artificial crack (per manufacturer or national method), run a substrate‑movement stress test (predetermined cycle width and number), then perform a permeability (output‑method) test to assess leakage. Photographic records and detailed reporting of conditions are required.
- Reporting: include material producer data, chemical composition, specimen details, test parameters, ambient conditions, equipment, and observed leakage/permeability results.
- Scope limitations: intended for comparative evaluation within the same material family; site trials are recommended for full performance assessment.
Applications and users
ISO/TS 16774-6:2017 is practical for:
- Material manufacturers validating product responsiveness to crack movement during R&D and quality control.
- Independent testing laboratories performing comparative permeability and movement‑response tests.
- Structural repair engineers and contractors specifying or selecting injection‑type repair materials (urethane, polyurea, bituminous grouts, etc.).
- Asset owners and specifiers assessing suitability of waterproofing repairs for underground concrete structures subject to thermal movement, settlement or vibration.
Benefits include informed product selection, improved quality assurance, and data to support national adaptations of performance thresholds.
Related standards
- ISO/TR 16475 - Guidelines for the repair of water‑leakage cracks in concrete structures.
- Other parts of the ISO/TS 16774 series (Parts 1–6) that cover complementary test methods and properties for crack repair materials.
Keywords: ISO/TS 16774-6:2017, test methods, repair materials, water‑leakage cracks, underground concrete structures, substrate movement, permeability testing, Universal Testing Machine, artificial crack, injection materials.