Stray Current-Induced Development of Cement-Based Microstructure in Water-Submerged, Ca(OH)2-Submerged and Sealed Conditions

This work reports on the development of microstructural and mechanical properties of mortar cubes under the synergetic action of stray current and various environmental/curing conditions. The study refers to specimens cured for 24h only, followed by a 112 days period of partial or full submersion in water or alkaline medium. Additionally,...

Dealing with uncertainty in material characterization of concrete by education

In this article a trip is taken to characterize concrete through its hardened cement paste based on its microstructure. Optical microscopy is coupled to advanced image analysis, as well as statistical data analysis to characterize heterogeneous concrete material. The article takes a closer look at the determination of the w/c ratio through the...

Mechanical, electrical and microstructural properties of cement-based materials in conditions of stray current flow

This investigation presents a comparative study on mechanical properties, electrical resistivity and microstructure of mortar under DC current, compared to mortar in rest (no current) conditions. Monitoring was performed from 24h after casting until 84 days of cement hydration. A current density level of 10 mA/m2 was chosen as a simulation...

Effect of Admixed Micelles on the Microstructure Alterations of Reinforced Mortar Subjected to Chloride Induced Corrosion

This paper reports the main results from the influence of the initially admixed nano-aggregates (0.5 g/l PEO113-b-PS70 micelles previously dissolved in demi-water) on microstructural alterations of the reinforced mortar subjected to chloride induced corrosion. The morphology of hydration/corrosion products at the steel/cement paste interface and...