Durability Archives

Corrosion of Embedded Metals in Concrete

Corrosion of Embedded Metals in Concrete Corrosion of reinforcing steel and other embedded metals is the leading cause of deterioration in concrete. When steel corrodes, the resulting rust occupies a greater volume than the steel.

Carbonation and Corrosion

TeamCivil Concrete, Durability

Carbonation is the term used to describe the effect of carbon dioxide on a material. The phenomenon rarely leads to structural problems but carbonation-induced corrosion can lead to unsightly spalling on structures. The repair costs,

Chloride Ingress into Concrete

TeamCivil Concrete, Durability

For concrete structures in chloride-containing environments, the ingress of chlorides can take place in different ways. Through uncracked concrete, the ingress mainly takes place by capillary absorption and diffusion. When a relatively dry concrete is

Alkali–Aggregate Reactions

TeamCivil Concrete, Durability

In this article, the three types of Alkali–Aggregate Reactions are described: (1) alkali–carbonate reaction (ACR), (2) alkali–silicate reaction, and (3) alkali–silica reaction (ASR). Alkali–Aggregate Reactions Water in the pores of hardened concrete contains quantities of dissolved ions

Concrete Distress Identification

TeamCivil Concrete, Durability, Repair

Distress Identification Before attempting any repair procedure it is necessary to have a planned approach to investigate the condition of concrete and reinforcement. While the diagnosis of damage or deterioration in some cases is reasonably

Visual Defects of Concrete

TeamCivil Concrete, Durability, Repair

Visual Defects of Concrete: one of the simplest ways to understand what exactly causes concrete to fail would be performing a Visual Survey of the deteriorated concrete structure. When a client hires an Engineer to inspect a

Surface Rust Stains and Efflorescence

TeamCivil Concrete, Durability, Repair

In this article, two of the visual defects that might appear on concrete are discussed: Surface Rust Stains and Efflorescence (or Leaching) of concrete. Surface Rust Stains Rust stains are caused by corroded steel below

Cracking and Honeycombing of Concrete

TeamCivil Concrete, Durability, Repair

In this article, two of the visual defects that might appear on concrete are discussed: Cracking and Honeycombing of concrete. Cracking of Concrete Cracking is frequently occur in concrete structures. There are various types of cracking that