Evolution of the sulfate ion transport-deterioration process in concrete

Purpose Sulfate-induced degradation is one of the most important factors influencing the durability of concrete. The paper aims to clarify the transport-deterioration process of sulfates in concrete and thus to explain the mechanism and the deterioration of concrete by sulfates. Design/methodology/approach This paper presents an experimental study into the evolution of the transport-deterioration process of sulfate ions in concrete in a pure soaking environment. Findings The microscopic morphology of individual concrete layers at different depths and the change law of the sulfate ion concentration at the corresponding depths were investigated for different exposure times. Furthermore, the relationship between the changes in microstructure and the transport characteristics of the sulfate ions was studied. Originality/value A method to calculate the cracking level sulfate ion concentration was proposed.