The durability of reactive powder concrete: a review

Abstract

Reactive powder concrete (RPC) is a new cement-based composite material with ultra-high strength, high ductility and good toughness, which has an extensive application prospects. Based on the domestic and foreign research achievements, the durability of reactive powder concrete is integrally discussed from the standpoints of freezing-thawing resistance chloride ion penetration, carbonization, erosion, and abrasion. Under freeze-thaw cycle, the mass loss of RPC is minimal, chloride ion permeability of RPC is almost negligible, active admixtures can improve the sulfate corrosion resistance of RPC significantly. Moreover, RPC has excellent carbonation resistance and abrasion resistance. The mechanisms of the supreme durability of RPC are analysed in detail. The outlook on topical problems and promising research directions in this field is presented.