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Microstructural Features of Freeze-Thaw Deterioration of Concrete

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  21 February 2011

Tanya Bakharev
Affiliation:
University of Illinois, Department of Civil Engineering, Urbana, IL
Leslie J. Struble
Affiliation:
University of Illinois, Department of Civil Engineering, Urbana, IL
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Abstract

Microstructural features associated with freeze - thaw deterioration have been studied using scanning electron microscopy and mathematical modelling. Concrete subjected to freeze—thaw cycles in the laboratory and concrete deteriorated in the field were examined in the SEM (BEI). The microcracks produced after a few freeze—thaw cycles are largely vertical and extend deep (several millimeters) into the specimen. With additional cycles horizontal cracks are produced, connecting the vertical cracks to produce spalling. This crack development probably results from localized expansive stresses produced by hydraulic pressure, as described by Powers, plus localized shear stresses produced by differential volume changes.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 1995

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References

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