Sp 317 Sulfate Attack On Concrete

Sulfate Attack on Concrete provides a comprehensive reference to this important subject. It covers: a short history of concrete deterioration due to sulfate attack, the origin of sulfates in concrete, the importance of appropriate concrete processing, forms and physical-chemical mechanisms of concrete deterioration due to sulfates, preventative mea

This volume contains ten invited presentations on the topic of sulfate attack caused by external sulfate sources. The discussions concentrate on chemical and physical mechanistic aspects of the applicable sulfate-to-paste reactions and on the interrelationships between the internal (e.g., paste composition, pore solution, concrete matrix permeability) and external (e.g., composition of aggressive medium, temperataure and humidity, curing practices) variables.

This book provides practicing engineers with a step by step approach for making durable concrete with optimum use of the local materials available within the various regions of the United States. It further includes actual concrete mixture proportions for high performance concrete for strength and durability under various aggressive environments based on the author’s experience in the field, and support this with illustrative case studies. Examples for concrete mixture proportions, based on the current industry practice and standards, are highlighted to assist engineers in meeting the intended performance requirements (for specific environment conditions) for durable concrete. Covering an important topic for the construction and building materials industries, this book delivers the most up-to-date industry practices and advances in concrete construction from the perspective of a practicing engineer with over 40 year experience. Maximizes practicing engineers’ understanding of best design and construction practices in fabricating, delivery, and installation of concrete, consistent with current knowledge on concrete durability Discusses quality control and testing requirements during design and construction, including mixing, production, and placement of concrete and tolerances for slump and air content Emphasizes real-world examples of optimal concrete mixtures, suitable for selected service conditions and applications, based on prior successful records of projects within the US Addresses the role of innovative admixtures in concrete placement in cold weather conditions below 32F and meeting the strength and durability requirements Serves as a valuable resource for students in graduate programs

A limited review of technical literature was made to determine the present state of knowledge concerning: (a) nature and mechaniem of sulfate attack on concrete; (b) methods of minimizing or preventing sulfate attack; and (c) methods of guarding or restoring existing structures affected by sulfate attack. The information obtained showed that, generally, the degree of sulfate attack on a concrete structure is dependent upon: (a) type of cement used; (b quality of concrete with regard to sulfate resistance; (c) local conditions (sulfate concentration in soil and ground water); and (d) surface protection. Before the structure is built, local conditions should be studied to determine the need for using Type II or V, or special cements, or for addition of pozzolans. In sulfate attack is expected, the quality of the concrete is of paramount importance. Surface coatings may be used as a precaution but cannot be substituted for good-quality concrete. After the structure is in place, surface coatings and adequate drainage are the only means of protecting the concrete from sulfate attack. (Author).