Masonry units, segmental pavers and flags-Methods of test - Method 16: Determining permeability to water

AS/NZS 4456.16:2003: Masonry units, segmental pavers and flags-Methods of test - Method 16: Determining permeability to water

Ensuring the long-term durability and performance of masonry structures hinges on a thorough understanding of material properties. For engineers and designers specifying masonry units, segmental pavers, and flags, controlling moisture ingress is paramount. AS/NZS 4456.16:2003 provides an essential method for quantifying this critical characteristic, offering a proven approach to material assessment.

What is AS/NZS 4456.16:2003?

This authoritative standard, published by AS/NZS, details a specific laboratory test method for determining the permeability to water of masonry units, segmental pavers, and flags. Its primary purpose is to provide a consistent and reliable procedure for engineers and manufacturers to assess how readily water can pass through these construction materials, thereby informing design decisions and quality control processes within the civil engineering and construction sectors.

Scope & Purpose

AS/NZS 4456.16:2003 governs the laboratory testing procedure for measuring the rate at which water permeates through the face of individual masonry units, segmental pavers, and flags. The standard is specifically intended for assessing the characteristics of units likely to be used in single-leaf masonry applications. It does not aim to predict the water passage characteristics of a complete wall construction, which involves a more complex interplay of materials and jointing.

Who Must Comply?

• • Primary audience: Materials Engineers, Civil Engineers, Quality Assurance Inspectors, Laboratory Technicians, and Construction Managers involved in specifying, testing, or approving masonry products.
• • Industries affected: Construction, Building Materials Manufacturing, Civil Engineering, and Landscape Architecture.
• • Compliance nature: While often a recommended practice for product development and quality assurance, compliance may become mandatory when specified in project tender documents or contractual agreements.
• • Enforcement: Compliance is typically verified by accredited testing laboratories, manufacturers' internal quality control departments, and specifiers during project review.

Key Requirements Overview

The standard mandates a precise methodology for assessing water permeability. Key provisions include:

• • Specimen Preparation: Units must be prepared and conditioned correctly, including a 24-hour immersion in water prior to testing, and all vertical faces must be sealed to isolate the test area.
• • Apparatus: A specific apparatus is described, featuring a graduated cylinder to apply a controlled water head to the unit's face, with a defined internal diameter and sealing mechanism.
• • Test Procedure: The test involves applying a 200 mm water head and measuring the head loss over a 120-minute period or until a 100 mm head drop occurs.
• • Calculation: Permeability is calculated using a specified formula, taking into account cylinder diameter, head loss, the area of the face under test, and the duration of the test.
• • Recording & Reporting: Detailed records of all test parameters, specimen details, and calculated permeability values are required for a comprehensive report.

Related Standards & References

AS/NZS 4456.16:2003 is part of a broader series and works in