The Effect of Aggressive Groundwater on Concrete

Abstract

The groundwater aggressivity affects a number of important aspects of civil engineering. At first this thesis introduces the groundwater and different elements that influence in its aggressivity. The geological conditions together with the soil and groundwater chemical analysis give a detailed explanation on the factors causing the aggressivity of the groundwater. This thesis concerns the effect of groundwater aggressivity on concrete under conditions of sulfate presence in groundwater. The Porto-Romano in Durres, Albania has been selected as a case study. Groundwater analysis reveals that sulfates are present and that potential future problems may arise as a result of sulfate attack exposures. (Appendix B). Sulfate attack is a phenomenon that shows external results after many years of observation. The first tests performed lasted 7 and 28 days by taking in consideration field concentration of sulfates with a 0.5% MgSO4 solution. The second tests were performed in 28 days and 5% concentration of the MgSO4 is used conform ASTM C-1012.In the first test and the second test, results showed the difference between field like conditions and accelerated laboratory testing. Considering the results of groundwater analysis in Porto-Romano area after the implementation of the experiment, some suggestions related to concrete preparation as well as protection were needed. As this damage first affects the foundations, consequences will be visible to all the building constructed in the area. Further research of the hydrogeology needs to be carried out, before deciding to construct, especially at the area of interest which was once a marsh.

Keywords: Groundwater Aggressivity; Sulfate and Chloride Ions; Hydrogeology;