DIAGNOSING AND AVOIDING THE CAUSES OF CONCRETE DEGRADATION
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Published:2002
I Sims, 2002. "DIAGNOSING AND AVOIDING THE CAUSES OF CONCRETE DEGRADATION", Challenges of Concrete Construction: Volume 3, Repair, Rejuvenation and Enhancement of Concrete: Proceedings of the International Seminar held at the University of Dundee, Scotland, UK on 5–6 September 2002, Ravindra K. Dhir, M. Roderick Jones, Li Zheng
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Concrete can be exceptionally durable, but is sometimes regarded as being inherently defective. Durability is now challenged by complex mixtures, demanding applications and increasing use of marginal materials. Most causes of degradation can be prevented and experience from dependable diagnosis of previous failures is invaluable. The essential steps to successful, reliable diagnosis are summarised and the importance of continuity from desk study, through site inspection to laboratory findings is stressed. Petrography is identified as an indispensable procedure in the investigation of concrete deterioration. A selection of both established and relatively newly recognised threats to concrete durability is reviewed and some particular issues are highlighted for each mechanism. It is suggested that the occurrence of the thaumasite might have been underestimated in recent surveys.
INTRODUCTION
DIAGNOSIS
SOME ESTABLISHED THREATS
CONCLUSIONS
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
REFERENCES
