Field occurrence of thaumasite sulfate attack: prevention perspective

Abstract

Considering the durability significance of concrete structures in contact with soil and underground water such as piles and bridge foundations, tunnels lining, and dams, a necessity to address the destructive processes of concrete structure reducing its strength has been particularly increased over the past few decades. Among these critical processes, thaumasite sulfate attack (TSA), as a specific type of sulfate attack, requires particular considerations as it converts calcium silicate hydrate to a white mush substance and may result in total concrete integrity diminish. Based on the present review, TSA originates from several factors of which sulfate and carbonate ions are of the utmost importance. The underlying aim of this paper is to put forward prevention methods associated with mix design, cement chemistry, and practical approaches. Moreover, an investigation into the Canadian, American, and European standards is made, which showed that methods for dealing with such a destructive process should be incorporated into the codes soon.