Title:
Biogenic Sulfuric Acid Attack and Case Studies
Author(s):
Hugh (Xiaoqiang) Hou, Kimberly A. Steiner, John Fraczek, and James A. Mahaney
Publication:
Concrete International
Volume:
42
Issue:
5
Appears on pages(s):
33-38
Keywords:
concrete, sulfur, deterioration, corrosion
DOI:
10.14359/51725795
Date:
5/1/2020
Abstract:
Biogenic sulfuric acid attack (BSA) is probably the most common and most severe biodegradation mechanism affecting concrete. Identifying the characteristics of BSA distress can raise awareness of the distress and its impact. The article discusses distinct compositional and textural characteristics and variations from the exposed surface to sound concrete in two BSA-affected structures. The characteristics are consistent with an acid attack caused or promoted by involvement of microbiological metabolism.
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