Title: Designing for Durability

Author(s): Joseph F. Lamond

Publication: Concrete International

Volume: 19

Issue: 11

Appears on pages(s): 34-36

Keywords: concrete construction; concretes; durability; exposure; specifications; structural design;

DOI:

Date: 11/1/1997

Abstract:
This article presents recommended design studies, specification requirements, and construction operations that are necessary to provide a concrete structure with long-term performance. All concrete structures should be designed to recognize the environment in which it must perform, with particular attention to a structure’s microclimatic conditions. Concrete durability design must become as important an aspect in a project’s design phase as the structural and other phases of design. The most important design procedures are proper selection and specifying of the concrete materials for the anticipated durability exposures or potential problems. The major durability exposures and problems have been recognized for a number of years and although some solutions are still being studied, many solutions are known. However, the implementation of these solutions has been slow and not widespread within the design profession. There is general lack of understanding of durability design because of a lack of adequate education in concrete technology. Many of the construction procedures have a direct impact on the long-term concrete performance. The most important construction procedure is proper proportioning of the concrete mix so that it will be durable. Most construction operations impact concrete durability and the most critical of these are proper consolidation, finishing unformed surfaces, jointing, and curing.