Chapter 16: Durability of concrete

Concrete is one of the most extensively used materials in the world, due to its reputation as a strong and durable material with flexibility to form any difficult shape. Unfortunately this reputation has been tarnished due to many reported cases of premature deterioration of concrete structures. In this chapter, the mechanisms of deterioration of concrete structures are summarised and factors influencing them are identified. It is not the intention to elaborate on any of the deterioration mechanisms in detail, but to highlight factors which need to be given attention while designing durable concrete structures. In this context, methods of classifying exposure environment as per the current European standard are summarised. The importance of transport properties to durability is also demonstrated.