Title: Physical Salt Attack on Concrete: Mechanisms, Influential Factors, and Protection

Author(s): M. R. Sakr, M. T. Bassuoni, R. D. Hooton, T. Drimalas, H. Haynes, and K. J. Folliard

Publication: Materials Journal

Volume: 117

Issue: 6

Appears on pages(s): 253-268

Keywords: durability; physical salt attack; protection; salt hydration distress; salt weathering; testing

DOI: 10.14359/51727015

Date: 11/1/2020

Abstract:
Physical salt attack (PSA) is a potential deterioration mechanism in porous materials, including concrete, exposed to salt-laden environments. Damage occurs as salt crystals grow in the near-surface pores causing tensile stresses on the pore walls higher than the tensile capacity of concrete, which can lead to surface scaling similar in appearance to that of freezing-and-thawing damage. This paper compiles, synthesizes, and analyzes current knowledge/research on this topic in terms of the mechanisms of damage, test procedures, damage assessment methods, most influential factors, protection against PSA, and code/guideline provisions. Moreover, key aspects that require further investigation are highlighted, along with a proposed classification for the resistance of concrete to PSA and mitigation strategy.