Title: Predicting Deterioration of Concrete Exposed to Biogenic Sulphuric Acid Corrosion

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Publication: CIA

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Date: 2/14/2011

Abstract:
A research project conducted at RMIT University aimed to investigate the deterioration of concrete septic tanks located in rural Victoria. Deterioration of the tanks could be a result of internal acid attack and external sulphate attack. A comprehensive set of laboratory experiments was established to measure the accelerated deterioration of concrete under exposure to sulphate and acid. The mass changes in concrete specimens have been recorded for a period of one year when exposed to sulphate solutions and sulphuric acid solutions. The specimens were manufactured using the same mix design and ingredients used in septic tank production in the country Victoria prior to 1990. Based on the changes of mass recorded over the one year period, a statistical model has been developed to predict the mass loss/gain of concrete with time as a function of the cement content, and acid concentration observed in sewerage.