This study is part of a research programme aimed at designing performance-based specifica- tions for durability of concrete, through the equivalent performance concept. A concrete mixture will be qualified for a given exposure if appropriate tests show that concrete is…
This study is part of a research programme aimed at designing performance-based specifica- tions for durability of concrete, through the equivalent performance concept. A concrete mixture will be qualified for a given exposure if appropriate tests show that concrete is at least as durable as a concrete mix- ture which complies with prescriptive specifications from the standard. This study deals with carbonation, as it is a widely spread and relatively well known exposure. 8 concrete mixtures were designed by varying three parameters – water/binder ratio, fly ash content, and aggregate type – and they comply with specified limits. As each concrete mixture underwent two curing conditions, 16 sets of specimens were made. The accelerated test showed good sensitivity and pointed out significant variability of performances. A comprehensive study of properties of porous net including commonly used durability tests suggested that behaviour of concrete ex- posed to carbonation would not only depend on porosity but on chemical properties of binder.