- Author
- Pommersheim, J. M. | Clifton, J. R.
- Title
- Prediction of Concrete Service-Life.
- Coporate
- National Bureau of Standards, Gaithersburg, MD
- Journal
- Materiaux et Constructions, Vol. 18, No. 103, 21-30, 1985
- Distribution
- AVAILABLE FROM National Technical Information Service (NTIS), Technology Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, Springfield, VA 22161. Telephone: 1-800-553-6847 or 703-605-6000; Fax: 703-605-6900. Website: http://www.ntis.gov
- Keywords
- concretes; life (durability); mathematical models; degradation; life (durability); corrosion
- Abstract
- The paper discusses development of accelerated tests and mathematical models for predicting the durability of concrete. Durability, service life, and degradation factors are defined and accelerated test methods are contrasted to conventional comparative methods. Factors and mechanisms of concrete degradation are reviewed, as are efforts to quantify these phenomena. Deterministic and stochastic models are discussed. Procedures for developing accelerated tests are presented and applied to a hypothetical example involving freeze-thaw damage. Advantages and disadvantages of accelerated testing and mathematical modeling are discussed in terms of the degradation mechanisms affecting concrete. Examples given of the modeling approach and service life prediction include the prediction of the strength and maturity of concrete, acid attack on cement, sulphate attack, and the effect of scaling and corrosion on load-bearing capacity of concrete.