Title:
The Influence of Wick Action on Chloride Transport in Concrete
Author(s):
J. M. Aldred and B. V. Rangan
Publication:
Symposium Paper
Volume:
212
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
807-822
Keywords:
chloride penetration; diffusion; silica fume; slag; wick action
DOI:
10.14359/12723
Date:
6/1/2003
Abstract:
Wick action is defined as the transport of water (together with any dissolved salts) through a concrete element from a face in contact with water to a drying face. This study investigated the depth of chloride penetration in a range of concrete types exposed to salt water with and without wick action. Concretes containing normal portland cement (NPC) only, silica fume and ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS) were tested. Initial moisture content and cementitious type were found to influence water and chloride transport. The relative performance of the various concrete types is discussed together with possible reasons for the observations and implications for in-situ performance.