Characterization of a non-shrinkage cement grout used for water pipe joints

Cement-based grouts are used at the Prestressed Concrete Cylinder Pipe (PCCP) joints to seal and protect the steel cylinder from the surrounding environment during the service life of the pipes. If a proper grout-water mix was not used, the grout could lose water, harden prematurely and shrink in the joint, causing long-term maintenance problems. Hence, it is critical to develop field test methods to ensure the quality of the grouts used in the water pipe joints.