Performance of epoxy-repaired concrete in a marine environment

Abstract

The use of epoxy resins is becoming the most common method of concrete repair and rehabilitation. The performance of epoxy-repaired concrete in a marine environment has been investigated. Specimens were cast using two different types of cement, ordinary and sulphate-resistant Portland cement, damaged and then repaired using three different types of epoxy resins available in the Kuwaiti market. Specimens were then hung in the Arabian Gulf, in the tidal zone, so that they were subjected to cycles of wetting and drying for different time durations up to 18 months. The specimens were then tested in split and in slant shear to determine their tensile and bond strength. Results are compared with those of the control specimens, which were kept in a laboratory under controlled conditions.