Title:
Why Chemistry Matters in Concrete
Author(s):
Vagn Johansen, Waldemar Klemm, and Peter Taylor
Publication:
Concrete International
Volume:
24
Issue:
3
Appears on pages(s):
84-89
Keywords:
DOI:
Date:
3/1/2002
Abstract:
Why does chemistry matter? It matters because chemistry controls the life span of concrete. Chemistry explains why cement hardens and the interaction between cement and its environment. We will discuss the basic inorganic chemistry of cement and concrete under service conditions. The durability of concrete depends on chemical processes developing out of cement and aggregate compositional factors, curing conditions, and exposure to a variety of environmental effects. The chemical reactions that occur during the hydration of the clinker minerals determine concrete microstructure. Therefore, it is the engineer’s job to properly design concrete mixes and erect structures in a way to control or adequately compensate for chemical reactivity.