Title: Validation of Service Life Prediction for a 28-Year-Old Parking Garage Constructed of Low Permeability Concrete (Part 1)

Author(s): Trevor William Pratt

Publication: CRC

Volume:

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 83

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DOI:

Date: 8/1/2023

Abstract:
The objective of this research was to quantify the benefits of silica fume through a detailed investigation of the concrete decks within the now-demolished Salt Lake City International Airport parking structure, which was constructed in 1991, after it had been in service for almost 30 years. Several tests were performed to evaluate each of five areas within the parking structure. The results of field testing included data obtained from visual inspection, chain dragging, Schmidt hammer testing, and cover meter readings, while the results of laboratory testing included data obtained from chloride concentration, modulus of elasticity, electrical impedance, rapid chloride permeability, splitting tensile strength, compressive strength, and carbonation depth testing. The results of this research suggest that concrete comprising silica fume should be expected to provide greater strength and durability than concrete without silica fume, assuming that the concrete mixture is designed, produced, placed, and cured properly. Where budgets permit, silica fume is therefore recommended for concrete projects for which high strength and durability are needed. Further research would be beneficial in comparing the performance of concrete comprising silica fume and concrete without silica fume in other applications, as well.