Title: Long-Term Durability of Special High-Strength Concretes

Author(s): P. Nepper-Christensen, B.W. Kirstensen, and T. H. Rasmussen

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 145

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 173-190

Keywords: cements; compressive strength; concretes; deicers; durability; exposure; fly ash; freeze-thaw durability; high-strength concretes; seawater; silica fume; Structural Research

DOI: 10.14359/4461

Date: 5/1/1994

Abstract:
The long-term durability of a number of special types of concretes has been tested by exposing various large-scale concrete specimens to different outdoor conditions. The concretes tested include concretes made with different types of cement and incorporating various quantities of fly ash and silica fume (microsilica) as well as mixtures thereof. In one test series, full-scale precast concrete units were installed as functional members of a fish-ladder. The units, comprising concrete with up to 50 percent of silica fume (related to the cement content), are subject to the action of lake water and freezing and thawing. They have been in service for nearly 15 years, and the results demonstrate the excellent durability of concrete with silica fume. In another test series, concrete panels and slabs are exposed to Danish outdoor climates (freezing and thawing during winters) in connection with frequent use of deicing salts. The test series also comprises large-size panels, installed in a harbor at the west coast of Denmark. For this test series, 10-year results are now available.