Influence of silica fume on chloride resistance of concrete

grantor: University of TorontoDeterioration of reinforced concrete structures is often related to corrosion of the reinforcement. For offshore structures and structures in cold climates, corrosion is mainly initiated by the penetration of chlorides. Many structures are not accessible or uneconomical to repair. Therefore, great care is required in designing new concrete structures for service in severe environments. The main consideration is to increase the chloride resistance of concrete. This thesis work investigates the influences of silica fume and W/CM ratio on the chloride resistance of concrete. Other factors studied were curing regimes and different coarse aggregates. The main tests used for evaluation were bulk diffusion tests, standard AASHTO T259 salt ponding test, and rapid chloride permeability test. 7% silica fume replacement was found to be more effective than reducing W/CM ratio from 0.45 to 0.35 in enhancing the durability of concrete. Good correlations between the different chloride penetration resistance tests were also established.M.A.Sc