Title: The Impact and Optimization of Deicer Solutions on Concrete Characteristics in Sub-Zero Environments

Author(s): Shahid Ul Islam, Shakeel Ahmad Waseem

Publication: Materials Journal

Volume:

Issue:

Appears on pages(s):

Keywords: compressive strength; concrete; deicer chemicals; microstructural analysis; response surface methodology

DOI: 10.14359/51742114

Date: 7/17/2024

Abstract:
This study examines the impact of deicers on the compressive strength and microstructure of concrete at ambient temperature in sub-zero areas. In this study, after seven days of curing in plain water, concrete specimens were exposed to four deicer chemical solutions: sodium chloride, sodium acetate, calcium nitrate, and urea at 3%, 6%, and 9% concentrations, respectively. The specimens were tested for compressive strength after 14 days, 28 days, and 90 days of exposure. All tested deicers, except calcium nitrate, have a propensity to decrease the compressive strength of concrete. Exposure to sodium acetate, which appears to have the most detrimental effect, decreased the compressive strength of concrete by a maximum of 30.79% at a concentration of 9%, whereas exposure to calcium nitrate increased the compressive strength of concrete by 17% at a concentration of 3%. Deicers changed the microstructure of concrete, which was investigated using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM). This was followed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) for qualitative analysis of phases present in deicer-treated concrete specimens. The desirability function was used to determine the optimal exposure period and calcium nitrate concentration for concrete in subzero environments, which were respectively 10 to 11 days and 8.8 to 9%.