Application of Time-Domain Reflectometry for Measurement of Moisture Profiles in a Drying Experiment

The time-domain reflectometry (TDR) method is used for the measurement of moisture profiles in calcium silicate during a drying experiment. The specimens are saturated at first by water, and their lateral sides and one of the face sides are water- and vapor-proof insulated to ensure one-dimensional (1-D) water transport. Then, the drying process is started in an environment with a relative humidity of 20%. Moisture profiles are measured at specified time intervals using the TDR method. The experiment is stopped when the moisture content along the whole length of the sample is lower than the maximum hygroscopic moisture content. The obtained results can be used for the determination of moisture diffusivity in the drying phase of moisture transport.