Title:
Diffusion of Chloride Ions in Unsaturated Concrete: Forecast of Service Life in a Wet-Dry Environment
Author(s):
A.T.C. Guimaraes and P.R.L. Helene
Publication:
Symposium Paper
Volume:
229
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
175-194
Keywords:
chloride; concrete; diffusion; durability; saturation degree; transport properties
DOI:
10.14359/14736
Date:
9/1/2005
Abstract:
In recent years, extensive research on the influence of the saturation degree (SD) on the diffusion of chloride ions has demonstrated the importance of including this factor in models used to forecast the service life of reinforced concrete structures. The current study aims to propose changes to the test method devised by GUIMARAES (3) in order to allow analyses under unsteady-state flow conditions in the form of Fick’s Second Law and then assess the actual influence of the SD of concrete on the diffusion of chloride ions. The results obtained confirm that the SD is a major factor of influence on the diffusion of chloride ions. The curve proposed to account for the influence of the SD on the diffusion of chloride ions showed good accuracy when used as a model of service life applied to a reinforced concrete structure in a maritime pier with 22 years of use.