INS 319E - Durability of Concrete

Course Objectives

1.Durability concept
2.Durability-based design
3.maintenance of reinforced concrete structures

Course Description

Pore structure of concrete, interaction between pores and water, transport mechanisms. Environmental exposure classes, assesment of chemical attacks and pyhsical attacks on concrete. Freeze-thaw resistance of concrete, cracking, deicing agents, minimum requirements. Mechanisms of corrosion, corrosion protection, influencing parameters, minimum requirements for concrete to resist carbonation-induced corrosion. Chemical attack on concrete, sulphate attack, acid attack, alkali attack, minimum requirements. Weathering and discoloring, lime efflorescence, biological growth. Durability performance tests. Methods of durability design. Maintenance of concrete structures.