Study of moisture risk assessment and material emissions of plastic carpets on concrete floor

Ensuring sufficient drying of the concrete is required before applying surface material. Even if the required level can be demonstrated by humidity measurements, it may nevertheless leave questions about the long-term performance of the structure. In 2021, a new modeling tool (by2020) to assess the drying of concrete was introduced in Finland. by2020 can also be utilized for a risk assessment of concrete floors with plastic carpets. The long-term relative humidity under the carpet can be evaluated, taking into account the additional moisture of leveling compound and adhesive, as well as the water vapor resistance of surface material. This study compared laboratory humidity measurements with results of the modeling tool. A good agreement between the model and laboratory measurements was found. In addition, the material and surface emissions were studied. Material samples showed significant emissions, which increased during the investigation period. However, surface emissions from an intact surface were insignificant.