Title: Durability of Normal and Lghtweight Prestressed Concrete Beams in Marine Environment

Author(s): J. L. Trinh and L. Lemoine

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 109

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 367-380

Keywords: beams (supports); concrete durability; cracking (fracturing); marine atmospheres; prestressed concrete; sea water; tests; Materials Research

DOI: 10.14359/2011

Date: 8/1/1988

Abstract:
A project was devoted to the experimental examination of durability of reinforced concrete beams cast with either normal gravel or artificial lightweight ARGI 16 aggregates. Two series of three identical beams, different only by the nature of concrete, were exposed in the following conditions. One couple comprising a beam of each type is left in conditions simulating the normal tidal zone; the remaining beams are stored in a similar exposure combined with a thermal treatment during the immersion position (ventilation with air heated at 32 C). All tested elements were subjected to a bending moment by means of a negative prestressing, letting a permanent cracking of tensioned concrete. The examination period lasts five years. The paper deals with observations done during this period and results gained in the final loading tests achieved. The conclusion drawn from this particular study is very promising for durability of normal or lightweight concrete structures in marine environment, at least with the normally required quality.