Influence of Surface Coatings on Carbonation of Concrete

Abstract

The deterioration of reinforced concrete structures resulting from reinforcement corrosion is a worldwide concern. One significant part of repair solutions is to coat the concrete surface to inhibit the ingress of penetrating substances such as carbon dioxide and water. An investigation was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of surface coatings as carbon dioxide barriers. It was found that the coating effectiveness depends not only on the coating material but also on its mode of application and the conditions of its concrete substrate. The minimum required effectiveness of a coating depends on job requirements, and in its specification, the influence of the coating on the moisture condition of the substrate has to be taken into account.