Concrete Durability: A Multibillion-Dollar Opportunity
Abstract
Concrete is one of the world's most important construction materials, and it has a significant impact on the national economy. When properly produced, concrete structures perform adequately even under very severe conditions of use. However, many instances of deterioration and poor performance cna be cited, and concerns have been expresses as to how to improve the quality of concrete produced to give better durability in service. These concerns prompted the Department of Defense and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to request the National Research Council through its National Materials Advisory Board to convene a committee of experts to assess the current situation and to identify actions that can improve the durability of concrete. The committed examined present concrete production practices, evaluated available technologies for producing durable concrete, and identified existing and emerging technologies that offer promise of producing concrete with the physical properties and durability to perform satisfactorily under severe environmental conditions. Technical and institutional barriers were discussed by the committee, and recommendations are made regarding opportunities for improving end-use performance of concrete in an economical manner. Keywords: Durable concrete, Portland cement, Chemical admixtures, Reinforced concretes, Novel concretes, MDF concrete, Polymer impregnation, Air entrainment, Fly ash, Sulfur concrete, DPS concrete, Superplasticizers.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA190908