Exploring effects of supplementary cementitious materials in concrete exposed to physical salt attack

Abstract

It has been well established that supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) can significantly enhance the resistance of concrete to chemical sulfate attack. However, the effect of SCMs on the durability of concrete exposed to physical salt attack is still controversial. To date, there have been only limited studies that have investigated this concrete durability issue. Therefore, the present study investigates the effects of using different types of SCMs, including silica fume, fly ash and metakaolin, in concrete subjected to environments prone to physical salt attack. Results indicate that the damage of concrete escalates as the addition level of SCMs increases. An attempt is made to delineate this problem and explain the mechanisms controlling this behaviour, which could have implications for existing design codes. The findings call for caution when SCMs are specified for concrete subjected to environments conducive to physical sulfate attack.