Title:
Sulfate Attack on Concrete: Research Needs
Author(s):
Menashi D. Cohen and Bryant Mather
Publication:
Materials Journal
Volume:
88
Issue:
1
Appears on pages(s):
62-69
Keywords:
accelerated tests; cement pastes; concretes; durability; ettringite; failure criteria; gypsum; magnesium sulfate; pozzolans; sodium sulfate; sulfate attack; Material Research.
DOI:
10.14359/2382
Date:
1/1/1991
Abstract:
The mechanism of sulfate attack on portland cement concrete is not well understood. This has limited the confidence that can be placed in the reliability of existing standard tests and models to predict performance and service life of concrete subjected to sulfate attack. A systematic research effort on sulfate attack is necessary to establish five criteria. This would lead both to better understanding of the sulfate attack mechanism and the development of more reliable standard tests and better models to predict performance and service life. The objective of this paper is to present and discuss these five criteria. In addition, an approach for assessing the influence of pozzolans, or other cementing materials, on concrete performance and service life in sulfate environment is presented.