Title:
Damage by Delayed Ettringite Formation
Author(s):
Mario Collepardi
Publication:
Concrete International
Volume:
21
Issue:
1
Appears on pages(s):
69-74
Keywords:
alkali-silica reaction; durability; ettringite; microcracking; sulfate attack
DOI:
Date:
1/1/1999
Abstract:
A holistic model is used to study one of the most complex phenomenon in the science of concrete durability, namely the deterioration caused by delayed ettringite formation (DEF). The model is based on three essential elements: late sulfate release, microcracking, and exposure to water. Theoretically, DEF-induced damage can be reduced or prevented by controlling at least one of the three elements. In practice, the best method to reduce this damage is either to avoid cements with high clinker sulfate which can be responsible for late sulfate release, or to adopt lower and more homogeneous stress distribution derived from the prestressing process.