Title:
Concrete Deterioration Due to Acid Precipitation
Author(s):
Hendrik L. Kong and James G. Orbison
Publication:
Materials Journal
Volume:
84
Issue:
2
Appears on pages(s):
110-116
Keywords:
acids; concretes; deterioration; discoloration; nitric acid; high-strength concretes; pH; precipitation; sulfuric acid; tests; weight measurement; Materials Research
DOI:
10.14359/1825
Date:
3/1/1987
Abstract:
An accelerated laboratory test program was conducted to evaluate the response of portland cement concrete cylinders to simulated acid precipitation solutions. A total of 140 specimens were placed in acidic solutions with pH levels ranging from 2 to 5 for a period of three months. The response of the specimens, made using Type I portland cement and having design compressive strengths of 3000 psi (20.7 MN/mý) to 9000 psi (62.1 MN/mý), was evaluated through visual examination, weight changes, and compressive strength changes. The results indicate that specimen deterioration, as evidenced by material loss as well as discoloration, increases with decreasing pH levels of the solutions, and with increasing design compressive strength.