Combined Effects of Saltwater and Water Flow on Deterioration of Concrete under Freeze–Thaw Cycles

Abstract

This article outlines the combined effects of saltwater and water flow on deterioration of concrete under freezing and thawing cycles. In order to simulate the real freezing situation that concrete usually undergoes, four sets of experimental exposure conditions were designed. These exposure conditions include plain flowing water, flowing saltwater, still plain water, and still saltwater. Two types of concrete samples with different water–cement ratios were prepared. Weight and compressive strength of the samples were measured before and after the freeze–thaw cycles, and the results were analyzed. Based on the results, quantitative damage models were developed to predict mass loss and compressive strength loss. The results showed that water flow accelerates the deterioration of concrete and that the combined effects of saltwater and water flow are more severe and cause rapid deterioration.